Alarming Surge In Toxic Algae Blooms Predicted by NOAA For Great Lakes This Summer!
NOAA warns of a dangerous rise in toxic algae blooms in the Great Lakes that could threaten your drinking water and favorite beach spots! 🚨 #News #GreatLakes #NOAA
Get Ready for a Summer Shocker!
CLEVELAND, OH – NOAA is keeping a close eye on the Great Lakes this summer due to a potential rise in harmful algae. These blooms could impact local economies and ecosystems here in Cleveland, Ohio and throughout the surrounding area.
Lake Erie Forecast
On Thursday, NOAA shared its seasonal outlook. They predict Lake Erie’s algae levels will range between 4.5 and 6, with an average of about 5. While these levels are below the severe threshold, they are similar to last year’s average of 5.3.
Risks and Timing
Algae levels of 5 or greater can pose risks to drinking water and recreational activities. The annual blue-green algae bloom is expected to become visible by early July and could last until September.
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Changes in Bloom Patterns
Over the past decade, blooms in Lake Erie have been starting earlier. This early onset doesn’t always mean a larger bloom, but it does extend the duration. The largest bloom on record occurred in 2015, reaching a severity index of 10.5. The previous year, Toledo, Ohio, experienced water quality alerts due to unsafe microcystin levels.
Health and Environmental Concerns
Microcystins, if ingested, can cause serious health issues, ranging from skin rashes to severe illness and even death. Heavy rainfall near industrial and agricultural areas can lead to phosphorus runoff into rivers, streams, and eventually the lakes, promoting toxin production.
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Goals and Observations
NOAA aims to keep summer algae levels below 3, a goal not achieved since 2012. Drier periods have resulted in less significant blooms due to reduced runoff.
Ongoing Monitoring and Reports
NOAA plans to release additional reports on the bloom status throughout the summer. This information is crucial for the estimated 30 million people relying on the Great Lakes for drinking water and for those using the waterways.
Importance of Forecasts
NOAA’s Lake Erie HAB forecast is a valuable tool for drinking water treatment plants, local governments, and individuals visiting or using Lake Erie. Data collected before and during each bloom season help inform nutrient management and bloom response strategies.
Read the full report here.
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