Published
4 years agoon
By
gvwireSan Luis Reservoir is not safe for swimmers because of a big bloom of blue-green algae, state authorities warned Tuesday.
People looking to enjoy a day at the Merced County reservoir can safely ride atop the water in boats but must avoid any contact with the water, said the California Department of Water Resources, which issued the health warning. The alert will remain in place until further notice.
Danger signs are posted at the Basalt and Dinosaur Point boat launches. O’Neill Forebay, next to the reservoir, is not affected by the alert.
Exposure to toxic blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, can cause eye irritation, allergic skin rash, mouth ulcers, vomiting, diarrhea, and cold- and flu-like symptoms. Pets can be especially susceptible because they tend to drink while in the water and lick their fur afterward.
Algae bloom conditions can change swiftly, with wind or waves shifting the bloom or changing its concentration.
The water resources department recommends that people near a body of water with algae bloom take precautions:
‘Data Dump’ Held Merced Back in Most Restrictive Tier Until Wednesday Fix
Merced CHP K9 Sniffs Out 18-Pound Cache of Crystal Meth
Self-Driving Vehicle Testing to Expand in Valley Under Agreement with Ohio Research Firm
Lockheed F-117 Nighthawk Stealth Aircraft Coming to Castle Air Museum
As COVID Vaccine Supplies Dwindle, Clinics in Fresno, Tulare, and Madera Counties Hit Pause
$5,000 Rewards for Info Leading to Arrests of Merced Escapees