Record Heat Spurs Toxic Algae Blooms In Utah and Means Don’t Swim If You See This

Record High Temperatures and Toxic Algae Blooms

Utah and other parts of the west are experiencing record high temperatures this spring. With the heat there has been an uptick of bodies of water developing toxic algae blooms in places that haven't seen them before.

Even if you have spent time at a particular lake or reservoir in the past, it might be good to recognize the signs of a harmful algae bloom this year. For example, Lake Powell and the Glen Canyon Recreation area have issued a warning about toxic blooms in the area.

Identifying Signs of Toxic Blooms

Some signs are easy to recognize like green scum floating on the top of the water that looks like spilled paint. Algae can also turn the water a different colors. Any unnatural color from blue to orange and red may indicate harmful water.

Take note of any offensive smells that remind you of rotting eggs or decaying plants. As the algae decomposes it can release bad smells. Blooms thrive in stagnant water that has been sitting in the heat.

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Some water that moves like rivers can contain algae blooms that are hard to detect. If it smells bad, it is best to keep pets and kids out of the water. This doesn't mean you should avoid all water.

Toxic blooms are actually a bacteria and not an algae. This can result in a rash and can be worse if it is ingested. Keep an eye out for any warnings before you go, and be mindful of the possibility in this hotter than normal year.