Tap water in MV - still one of the best worldwide? - Boil-Water Alerts Rise in Germany Despite High Tap Water Standards
Germany's tap water is renowned for its high quality, ranking among the best globally. Nevertheless, even here, boil-water advisories occasionally arise when bacterial contamination is detected. These warnings are infrequent but crucial for safeguarding public health.
In recent years, the Vorpommern-Greifswald district has witnessed approximately one boil-water order per year. This pattern persisted in September 2025, when 60,000 residents in Greifswald were advised to boil their tap water following the detection of intestinal bacteria. Just months later, in February 2026, another 14,000 people across several municipalities, including Ueckermünde and Eggesin, received a similar notice. That same month, 7,900 residents in the Grimmen area were also affected.
Identifying the precise source of contamination can be challenging. Authorities conduct rigorous water testing, but pinpointing causes—whether from aging pipes, agricultural runoff, or other factors—often proves difficult. While the Rostock district has only issued boil-water notices for individual facilities, broader warnings in other regions underscore the need for enhanced safeguards.
Nationwide, boil-water advisories increased by roughly 15% between 2021 and 2025, primarily due to droughts and pollution. Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, however, saw a 25% decrease in such cases, thanks to upgraded water treatment plants. To further minimize risks, some areas are now exploring UV disinfection, which can eliminate 99.9% of microbes and viruses.
Boil-water orders serve as a precautionary measure rather than an indication of deteriorating water quality. The advisories in Greifswald, Ueckermünde, and Grimmen were lifted once tests confirmed safety. With ongoing upgrades and potential UV disinfection, authorities strive to keep such incidents rare and brief.
