The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Water Resources (DWR) has issued a reminder to the public to exercise caution around discolored water, which may indicate an algal bloom. This advisory comes as temperatures rise and environmental conditions become conducive to such occurrences.
Certain types of algae can produce toxins that pose health risks to humans, pets, and aquatic life. These are referred to as harmful algal blooms (HABs). The presence of toxins cannot be determined by sight alone. To report an algal bloom, individuals are encouraged to contact their nearest DEQ regional office or submit a report online. Information on reported algal bloom events is available on DWR’s Fish Kill & Algal Bloom Dashboard.
Algae naturally occur in all water bodies; however, specific conditions such as increased nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, elevated temperatures, more sunlight, and stagnant water flow can lead to rapid growth known as algal blooms. These blooms may manifest as surface scums resembling spilled paint in colors like bright green, red, brown, or blue. They might also appear as dense mats floating on the water or cause discoloration throughout the water column. Wind and wave action often move these blooms around. Decaying algae can emit a strong odor affecting large areas.
The N.C. Department of Health and Human Services Division of Public Health (DPH) advises avoiding contact with significant algae accumulations and preventing children and pets from swimming in or ingesting affected water. “When in doubt, stay out,” is the guidance provided by DPH.
DPH recommends several precautions against algal blooms:
– Keep children and pets away from water that appears bright green, blue, discolored, or scummy.
– Avoid handling large mats of algae.
– Do not handle or consume dead fish found nearby.
– Wash thoroughly if contact with an algal bloom occurs.
– Rinse off pets exposed to an algal bloom using clean water.
– Seek medical care if a child becomes ill after exposure to waters with an algal bloom.
– If a pet shows signs of distress after being in potentially affected waters, seek veterinary care immediately.
Additionally, DPH reminds the public that other microorganisms or pollutants could be present in recreational waters leading to illnesses.
For further information about algal blooms visit the DWR website. More details on potential health effects can be found on the DPH website.
