Toxic algae hits vast US lake just in time to spoil July 4 swimming and boating
Urgent warning issued over popular US lake during July 4 celebrations
- A toxic algae bloom, containing harmful cyanotoxins, has been detected in Lake Powell's Antelope Canyon, disrupting Fourth of July weekend recreation.
- The detected cyanotoxin levels are at the high end of safe exposure, posing risks such as liver and kidney failure, inflammation, and potentially death for humans and animals.
- Although Lake Powell remains open for recreation, park officials advise visitors to avoid swimming in affected water and not to boat on scummy areas to prevent inhaling airborne toxins.
- These harmful algal blooms are becoming more frequent and prolonged due to climate change, hotter temperatures, and nutrient run-off into water bodies.
- Exposure to cyanotoxins can occur through accidental ingestion or inhalation during recreational activities, with microcystin being a potent liver toxin and possible human carcinogen.