The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Water Resources (DWR) has issued a reminder to the public to avoid contact with discolored water, which may indicate the presence of an algal bloom.
Certain types of algae can produce toxins that are harmful to humans, pets, and aquatic life. These harmful algal blooms (HABs) can develop and dissipate quickly, making it difficult to determine their risk by appearance alone. “You cannot tell by looking at a bloom whether it is harmful or not,” the department stated.
Algae occur naturally in all bodies of water, but specific environmental conditions—such as increased nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, higher temperatures, more sunlight, and reduced water flow—can cause rapid growth leading to blooms. Algal blooms may appear as surface scums resembling spilled paint in colors such as bright green, red, brown or blue; as mats; or as dense floating masses. They can also cause discoloration throughout the water column and sometimes produce strong odors that affect large areas.
The DWR encourages residents who observe possible algal blooms to report them either through local DEQ regional offices or online. The agency maintains a Fish Kill & Algal Bloom Dashboard for tracking reported events.
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services’ Division of Public Health (DPH) also advises people to stay away from visible accumulations of algae and prevent children and pets from swimming in or ingesting affected water. “Remember: When in doubt, stay out,” according to DPH guidance.
DPH recommends several precautions:
– Keep children and pets away from brightly colored or scummy water.
– Do not touch large mats of algae.
– Avoid handling dead fish found near blooms.
– Wash thoroughly after any contact with potentially contaminated water.
– Rinse off pets exposed to affected waters with clean water.
– Seek medical attention if a child appears ill after exposure.
– Get veterinary care immediately if a pet shows symptoms such as stumbling or collapsing after being near ponds, lakes or rivers.
The DPH also reminds the public that other microorganisms or pollutants could be present in recreational waters and pose additional health risks.
For further information about algal blooms and their potential health effects, visit the DWR website or the DPH website.
