(Source: NOAA)(KMJ) – The State Department of Water Resources elevates the warning level from an algae bloom at the San Luis Reservoir.
Here is the release put out by the DWR Friday Morning:
The Department of Water Resources (DWR) urges people to avoid physical contact with the water at San Luis Reservoir in Merced County until further notice and avoid eating fish from the lake due to presence of blue-green algae.
Boating is allowed, but swimming and other water-contact recreation and sporting activities are not considered safe under the danger advisory announced today due to potential adverse health effects. A warning level advisory had been in place at the reservoir since July 19. Today’s announcement elevates that advisory to a danger level. O’Neill Forebay remains free from algal bloom advisories.
Danger signs are posted at the Basalt Boat Launch and Dinosaur Point Boat Launch.
The recommendation is based on the potential health risks from algal toxins. 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 afterwards.
