Scientists are predicting the toxic blue-green algae bloom in Lake Erie’s western basin will be mild this summer for the first time in years.
That’s good news for Ashtabula County residents, said Ray Saporito, health commissioner, Ashtabula County Health Department.
So far, this summer, the algae blooms have been detected as far east as Lake County and about one-mile offshore of Geneva Township Park, he said.
The News-Messenger of Fremont reports that a team of researchers collaborated on a seasonal algae prediction and concluded that this year’s algae will be about 1/10 of the amount of last year’s, which was one of the worst on record.
It would be the first mild summer for the harmful blooms since 2007. Scientists say that because there’s been less rain than usual, reducing the phosphorus runoff getting into the lake to feed algae growth.
Saporito warns boaters and swimmers to watch for algae warning signs before going into the water, and that includes pets, too.
“The movement of the algae is unpredictable,” he said. “It can manufacture a toxin that can makes people and animals ill.”
The green film of algae looks like spilled paint on the surface of the water.
The algae blooms also can litter beaches with rotting vegetation, but forecasters don’t expect to see a large amount of algae this year even if rainfall picks up significantly this summer.
Saporito reminds sunbathers and swimmers to check the E. coli bacteria warnings at the beach, as well.
“Heavy winds and rain can raise those levels,” he said.
On Friday, there was a bacteria advisory at Lake Shore Park and Walnut Beach, thanks to Tuesday’s rainstorms. That means the E. coli is elevated and children and the elderly should keep their heads out of the water. When you get out, take a shower, health officials said.
Friday afternoon, lifeguards at Lake Shore Park were verbally warning swimmers of the E. coli in the water.
According to the National Weather Service in Cleveland, the heat wave continues today, with a high of 93 degrees and scattered thunderstorms, but a bit cooler on Sunday, with a high of 80 degrees.
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