The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) is urging residents and visitors to stay cautious around lakes and reservoirs where toxic algal blooms may be present.
Blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, naturally occur in California waterways and are a normal part of aquatic ecosystems, according to the DWR. These algae can rapidly multiply and form blooms under normal conditions, such as warm temperatures, the presence of some nutrients, and calm water.
Although not all algae are dangerous, if the cyanobacteria become a Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB), it can produce toxins, resulting in health concerns for humans and pets and restrictions on water-based recreational activities, according to the DWR…