CORNELIUS, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — A No Swim Advisory has been issued for a cove on Lake Norman, Mecklenburg County officials announced Friday.
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Storm Water Services reported that an active harmful algae bloom was found in the cove bordered by Country Club Circle and Norman Shores Drive on the Torrence Chapel Peninsula. Residents are advised to avoid this area until the bloom is no longer present.
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The bloom was observed by Storm Water staff in response to a report of bright green and bluish water with a surface scum. Although most algal blooms are not harmful, some species called cyanobacteria can produce toxins that have been linked to severe illness in humans and animals if ingested.
Officials say the algae found in this bloom was confirmed as cyanobacteria, and, therefore, it can produce toxins.
You cannot tell whether a bloom is harmful just by looking at it, so it is best to avoid the following activities around possible algal blooms:
- Swimming, boating, kayaking, fishing, water-skiing or wading through the water;
- Touching or handling mats of algae;
- Ingesting the water;
- Using the water for washing of irrigation;
- Pets and children are at a higher risk of exposure so keep them away from water that appears discolored or scummy.
If you accidentally come in contact with a harmful algae bloom, take the following actions:
- Wash that part of your body thoroughly;
- Immediately seek veterinary care if your pet appears to stumble, stagger, collapse or vomit uncontrollably after being in contact with the water;
- Immediately seek medical care if a child or adult appears ill after being in contact with the water.
Storm Water staff will continue to survey the area until the bloom is no longer present at which time the public will be notified…