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A bacteria known as ‘cyanobacteria’ has developed extensively in Lake Erie, prompting officials to caution tourists at the popular Midwest destination to stay vigilant.
Cyanobacteria appear as blue-green algae and are commonly present in freshwater environments. While these bacteria are vital for sustaining a healthy aquatic ecosystem, excessive blooms can cause severe health problems.
The National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science released an alert warning of a cyanobacteria bloom in western Lake Erie that spans around 160 miles.
Visitors swimming in the lake from Maumee Bay north, to Monroe, Port Clinton, into the western basin at West Sister Island, and Sandusky Bay have been advised that toxins are above the recreational safety threshold.
The cyanobacteria bloom has created scums and discolored green water that can be dangerous for swimming.
‘Toxins have been noted below the recreational threshold in western Lake Erie. They can be extremely concentrated in scum formations! If you notice scum, ensure both your pets and yourself avoid the water,’ the alert communicated.
The NCCOS employs satellite imagery and predictive technology to assess the bloom’s condition. Field samples also indicate the toxicity level and depth in the water.
Satellite imagery from Tuesday displayed the western part of Lake Erie marked in green and blue, signifying high concentrations of cyanobacteria.
The National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science issued an alert for the western part of Lake Erie due to a bacterial bloom
The bacteria are called cyanobacteria and are known as blue-green algae that produce scum and a foul smell
The bacteria manifest in freshwater and can turn the water green. It can be dangerous for humans and lethal for pets
The NCCOS added that high winds can underestimate the full area impacted. Winds can mix the bloom, and clouds can obscure the satellite reading.
Cyanobacteria are a type of HAB (Harmful Algal Blooms) and can cause harm to the environment and humans.
Cyanobacteria can also produce a byproduct called cyanotoxins, which can cause diarrhea, headaches, skin irritation, and even death, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.
The bloom occurs when the water gets warmer, making July to October the peak season for Lake Erie.
The NCCOS released a seasonal forecast for HABs in Lake Erie in June, predicting the severity would be a three with a potential range of two to four out of ten.
Scientists expected a predicted bloom severity of mild to moderate, noting the bacteria would concentrate in July, peak in August, and continue until September.
Gregory J Dick, a professor of Biology at the University of Michigan, wrote in The Conversation that climate change has increased cyanobacteria growth.
Cyanobacteria grow in warmer climates, meaning that temperature increases exacerbate growth.
The alert was issued for Maumee Bay north, Monroe, Port Clinton, into the western basin on West Sister Island, and Sandusky Bay
Cyanobacteria are essential in maintaining a healthy aquatic ecosystem, but excessive blooms can lead to disastrous health effects
Cyanobacteria can lead to health problems, including diarrhea, headaches, skin irritation, and even death
Dick added that cyanobacteria can be lethal to pets, and new science suggests that long-term exposure for humans may even exacerbate respiratory, cardiovascular, and gastrointestinal problems.
These health issues have even been linked to liver cancers, kidney disease, and neurological problems.
In 2014, a cyanobacteria bloom contaminated Lake Erie, which made its way into the water supply.
Over 450,000 residents in Toledo were issued an advisory not to drink the water and were forced to purchase bottled water for over two days.
