The renowned Eisbachwelle, an artificial surf spot in the heart of Munich, has been temporarily closed following a serious incident involving a surfer. The popular wave, which draws surf enthusiasts from around the world, has been marked off by authorities as the city investigates safety protocols.
The incident occurred when a woman fell from the artificial wave and became entangled in her leash, which got caught on the riverbed beneath the Eisbach. Due to the strong currents of the river, rescuers initially faced difficulty freeing the woman. After approximately 30 minutes, the Munich fire department managed to untangle the leash and bring her to safety. She was promptly transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition.
City officials have not provided a specific timeline for the reopening of the site. They stressed the necessity of reviewing and enhancing safety measures before allowing surfers back into the water. For now, the area has been cordoned off with warning signs.
The Eisbachwelle, located at the entrance to Munich’s Englischer Garten park, has been a focal point for surfers since the 1980s. The artificial wave is created by the intersection of the Eisbach river with a concrete step, generating a 0.5-meter-high wave. Despite its appeal, the spot is known for its challenging conditions, including strong currents and shallow waters, which require advanced skill from those attempting to surf there.
Authorities are now focusing on ensuring that safety protocols are updated to prevent future accidents at the location.