Waterways across California continue to experience algal blooms

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA—Labor Day 2019 is officially in the rear view mirror, which means boating season – and summer – is unofficially over. But the mercury is still rising and warm weather is here to stay for a few more weeks, at least in Southern California. The warm weather means several lakes are experiencing harmful algal blooms. Waterways such as Big Bear Lake, Castaic Lake, Lake Elsinore, Lake Perris, Lake Skinner, Puddingstone Lake, Pyramid Lake and Silverwood Lake have all reported episodes of harmful algal blooms since July. Being in contact with harmful algal blooms increases the risk of being exposed to cyanobacterial toxins. No human deaths have been reported from exposure to such toxins, according to the California Department of Public Health, but there are a few consequences when coming into contact with waters affected by harmful algal blooms. A person could suffer from skin rashes, for example. Diarrhea and vomiting could occur if contaminated water is ingested. Your kidneys, liver or nervous system could also be harmed if you are exposed to higher toxin levels. There are a few things to pay attention to determine whether you are at a lake experiencing harmful algal blooms. Is the water bright green, blue, brown or...