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Sea stained brown near Benalmádena beach due to burst water pipe
Despite the murky appearance of the water, authorities insist there is no health risk
Beachgoers in Benalmádena (Málaga) were alarmed by the sudden appearance of a large brown stain in the sea on Monday May 26, prompting concerns about possible contamination. However, the local Town Hall has clarified that the discolouration was caused by a burst pipe in the public drinking water supply network and poses no threat to people’s health.
According to the official statement, the incident occurred around midday on Monday when a pipe operated by the public water company Acosol ruptured, releasing a significant amount of pressurised drinking water. The leak, which was quickly contained, caused water to surge through a nearby stream before reaching the sea, creating the temporary brown patch visible from the shore.
Videos shared on social media captured the force of the water as it gushed from underground and was carried downhill to the coastline. Understandably, this prompted concern among residents and tourists, who initially feared it could be sewage or chemical discharge.
Impresionante rotura de una tubería en Benalmádena. El Ayuntamiento informa que se trata de agua potable y la mancha que se ha generado en el mar "es fruto del arrastre natural de la tierra, sin ningún tipo de contaminación ni inconveniente para el baño pues proviene de una… pic.twitter.com/reLhsQJsuS
— 101TV Málaga (@101tvMalaga) May 26, 2025
Acosol explained that the affected section of pipe is particularly old and has suffered from long-term wear and tear.
“This stretch of the pipeline, which runs through areas including Cortijo Mena and the Híper zone, is included in our upcoming renovation project,” a spokesperson confirmed. “The damaged pipe will be replaced as part of that plan, which is currently being prepared for tender.”
In the meantime, Acosol and the local municipal water company Emabesa are coordinating efforts to ensure that drinking water supply to the town remains uninterrupted, using alternative sources and rerouted flow.
The Town Hall was also quick to stress that there was no environmental or health risk to bathers or marine life.
Image: Ayuntamiento de Benalmádena
