ICYMI: Cyanobacteria Blooms Found In Huntington Bay's Willow Pond

HUNTINGTON BAY, NY — New cyanobacteria blooms, more commonly known as blue–green algae, were found in Willow Pond in Huntington Bay, the Suffolk County Department of Health Services said Tuesday. Stony Brook University analyzed surface water samples, confirming the algae's presence.

Residents are asked not to use, swim or wade in these waters and to keep their children and pets away from the area, due to the findings.

Though blue-green algae are naturally present in lakes and streams in low numbers, they can become abundant, forming blooms in shades of green, blue-green, yellow, brown or red. They may produce floating scums on the surface of the water or may cause the water to take on a paint-like appearance, health officials said.

Contact with scummy or discolored waters should be avoided. If you do touch it, rinse off with clean water immediately, officials said. Seek medical attention if any of the following symptoms occur after contact: nausea, vomiting or diarrhea; skin, eye or throat irritation; or allergic reactions or breathing difficulties.

Click here to read the full story.