Recently, toxic blue-green algae has been found along the shores of Lake Washington near Arrowhead Point.

Blue-green algae patches, also called scum, is toxic and can cause serious problems, exposure to liver-toxins are flu-like and can include weakness, abdominal pain, diarrhea and vomiting. Children and pets are at the highest risk for exposure illness.

According to the King County Department of Health, swallowing lake water with blue-green algae should be avoided. People and pets are encouraged to stay out of the water where scum has accumulated. And, dog owners should be especially wary of not allowing pets to drink scummy lake water.

The algae grows due to slow-moving water, plenty of sunlight and a good mix of nutrients in the water to grow out of control, or bloom. These blooms usually occur later in the summer, however the long-term sunny weather during the summer, now and for the foreseeable future, means that the frequency of algae blooms may increase.

“People can help prevent blooms by preventing nutrient runoff into the lake. Nutrients can come from daily activities such as car washing and fertilizing yards or gardens,” stated the King County release.

If any of these symptoms occur, please seek doctor or veterinary help immediately. For more information, please visit the King County Department of Health’s website.