Algal Bloom At Big Bear Lake Prompts Health Warnings

BIG BEAR, CA — An algal bloom at Big Bear Lake has prompted the state to issue a danger warning to swimmers, recreational lake users and pet owners about toxins in the water.

According to the California Water Resources Control Board, the bloom poses a potential health threat.

"Stay out of the water," the CWRCB recommended. "Do not touch scum in the water or shore. Do not let pets go in the water, drink the water, or eat scum on the shore. Do not eat shellfish from this waterbody."

The state's advisory level at the lake, "danger," is the highest.

The lake water was tested by officials at Carol Morrison dock. The CWRCB reported that "the exact location, extent and toxicity of the reported bloom may not be accurate and may not be affecting the entire waterbody."

The water at Big Bear Dam was also tested and the advisory level was listed as "warning," a notch down from the highest "danger" level.

Cyanobacteria were detected in the waterbodies.

"Cyanobacteria, a group of organisms that form harmful algal blooms, can produce potent toxins," according to a CWRCB statement. "Health risks include skin inflammation, gastrointestinal distress, headaches, agitation and weakness or abnormal breathing if ... material is swallowed while swimming."

Algal growth is attributed to higher volumes of nutrients in the water, combined with elevated temperatures, lots of sunshine and little to no wind.

"Bloom conditions can change rapidly, as the winds and waves move or concentrate the bloom into different regions of the lake," the CWRCB stated. "In some areas, the bloom may concentrate and form a film or scum on the water surface. The color of the water may also appear discolored as bright or dark green and brown."

Officials could not say when conditions might change on the lake.

A warning has also been posted for Lake Elsinore. Read more here.

Additional information is available at https://mywaterquality.ca.gov/habs/index.html.