Latest news with #SCDES
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
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 This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
24-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
High bacteria levels found in several popular Charleston area waterways. Here's where to avoid this Memorial Day weekend
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) — If you're looking to hit the water for Memorial Day this weekend, Charleston Waterkeeper says there are a few popular spots you may want to avoid. The group identified multiple sites in its May 23 water quality report where high levels of Enterococcus bacteria were found: Northbridge Park, Hendricks Park, Hobcaw Creek, two areas of Shem Creek, and a portion of James Island Creek. Elevated bacteria levels can indicate possible contamination by fecal waste and may mean that harmful pathogens are present in the water, according to the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES). Exposure can lead to an increased risk of serious health infections, such as Cholera, Tuberculosis, Staph, and Vibrio, among others. Charleston Waterkeeper reported good news for boaters in the Charleston Harbor, as all tested sites meet the state standard for recreational activity. Spots around the area, including Brittlebank Park, are considered safe for swimming. Further up the Ashley River, Filbin Creek — a consistent problem spot — continues to register high bacteria levels, as did Northbridge Park. Opt for a splash in the Wando River near the Daniel Island Children's Park instead. Report identifies 10 US beaches that are 'hotspots' for bacteria The group found mixed results in Mount Pleasant, too. Swimming in Hobcaw Creek or Shem Creek north of Coleman Boulevard is not advised. Though bacteria levels appear okay at Shem Creek Park, swimmers should use caution. The Cove is a good option for water-based activities this weekend. The mixed results continue on James Island, where the creek near Folly Road is considered unsafe for swimming. Further down by Harbor View Road is clear, as is the rest of the island at rest of the island at Sol Legare, Clark Sound, and the Folly River. It's a green light for beachgoers this Memorial Day weekend as SCDES' latest data shows no signs of trouble from Isle of Palms to Seabrook Island. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
