The National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science have issued the latest Lake Erie Harmful Algal Bloom Bulletin.
The Microcystis cyanobacteria bloom in western Lake Erie has an approximate area of 180 square miles, which is an increase in area since Aug. 2.
The bloom has intensified along and near the Ohio coast East of Maumee Bay to near Catawba Island. Scum was present in areas with high concentrations. Lower concentrations are also visible east of Sandusky past Huron. Traces of cyanobacteria are detectable in Sandusky Bay. This is unrelated to western Lake Erie blooms.
The seasonal forecast was issued June 30. Toxins have been detected below the recreational limit. They can be highly concentrated in scums! If you see scum, keep your pets and yourself out of the water.
In the satellite imagery or bloom forecast position products, any areas that are orange or red are likely to have scum, especially during calm winds.
