2 days ago
Algal bloom found in Anderson County lake: SCDES
ANDERSON COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA) — State environment officials issued a recreational watch after detecting a harmful algal bloom (HAB) in Broadway Lake on Wednesday.
According to the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES), samples were found to contain cyanobacteria, which can produce cyanotoxins like cylindrospermopsin and microcystins.
HABS are common in the Palmetto States. They often occur during warmer and drier months, and can stick around for weeks. Cooler temperatures, heavy wind and rain can help break up and kill off the HAB.
Blooms, officials added, look like green spilled paint or a bluish-green coloration to the water.
State leaders said that people should not make direct contact with lake waters in areas where the HAB is present. Pets and animals should not swim or drink the lake water in impacted areas.
Common symptoms associated with algae blooms include stomach pain, skin rash, headache, coughing and watery eyes. SCDES said that if a pet is showing symptoms after coming into contact with a HAB, please consult your veterinarian.
Need more information? Contact the SCDES's Bureau of Water at (803) 898-8374.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
