KDHE Warns Kansas Residents: Important Health Advisories for Lakes Affected by Toxic Blue-Green Algae

Topeka, Kan. — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) have recently raised alarms about blue-green algae, also known as Harmful Algal Blooms (HAB).

These blooms can look like foam or scum on the water, showing colors from blue and bright green to brown or red. They can develop quickly, so if you see unusual colors in the water or decaying algae along the shore, it’s best to stay away, especially with pets.

Blue-green algae produce toxins that can enter your body through various ways: drinking contaminated water, inhaling aerosols, or skin contact. Symptoms can range from skin rashes to more serious issues like vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and even headaches, depending on how you are exposed.

As of now, the following areas are under advisories:

Warning:

• Atchison City Lake #9
• Atchison State Fishing Lake
• Frazier Lake
• Gathering Pond
• Jeffrey Energy Center Auxiliary Lake
• Jeffrey Energy Make-up Lake

Watch:

• Clinton Lake
• Lake Parsons
• Marion Reservoir
• Tuttle Creek Lake Zone A
• Warnock Lake

A warning means that a bloom is currently present, while a watch indicates that one might develop. Health advisories are canceled when algae toxicity drops below safe levels.

If you or your pets come in contact with algae, rinse the affected area with clean water immediately. It’s also important to report any suspected health issues linked to harmful algae, whether for humans or animals, to the KDHE without delay.

It’s worth noting that blue-green algae aren’t a new issue; similar blooms have been observed over the years. Recent studies show a rise in these occurrences, tied to rising temperatures and nutrient runoff in water bodies.

For more information, visit KDHE’s Harmful Algal Blooms page.

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