A seasonal red tide has returned to the Thermaic Gulf, forming a foul-smelling phytoplankton bloom along Thessaloniki’s waterfront.
The bloom, which recurs nearly every year, has spread across stretches of shoreline from the Nautical Club of Thessaloniki to the city’s Concert Hall.
Scientists attribute the phenomenon to nutrient runoff from sewage and fertilizers, combined with high summer temperatures.
Authorities have deployed the cleanup vessel Alkippi, operated by North Aegean Slops, to skim surface algae and reduce the spread.
Officials said the effort aims to limit further environmental impact.
