Water Quality Advisory Issued At Lake Roland

TOWSON, MD — Concerns about water safety have surfaced across the Baltimore metro area after torrential downpours in recent weeks. Among the areas affected is Lake Roland.

"Recent heavy rains, storms or other conditions may have resulted in significantly reduced water quality in this stream, river and/or bay," says a sign at Lake Roland alerting the public to a recreational water quality advisory signage. "Water-related activities may post an increased health risk."

The park shared a picture of the sign, which was posted last week and urges people to minimize their contact with the water, particularly avoiding contact with wounds or cuts and being sure to limit hand-to-mouth contact if interaction with the water occurs. Hand-washing is important for safety, health officials said.

As of Tuesday night, the water quality remains poor at Lake Roland, and Paw Point water access was closed.

Check the water status at Lake Roland.

The park on Lakeside Drive in Baltimore County is not the only area experiencing issues after inches upon inches of rainfall in recent weeks.

Boaters have been urged to use extreme caution if they venture out into the waters of Chesapeake Bay after deluges sent debris downstream.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources issued an advisory on Tuesday, July 31, that no swimming would be allowed at Sandy Point State Park until further notice. The immediate closure was caused by safety concerns over the large amounts of debris being deposited on the beach from the recent heavy rains, the department said.

File photo by Renee Schiavone/Patch.