A type of bacteria known as ‘cyanobacteria’ has emerged in Lake Erie, prompting officials to advise visitors to this popular Midwest destination to stay cautious. 

Cyanobacteria appear as blue-green algae and are usually present in freshwater environments. While these bacteria play a crucial role in maintaining an aquatic ecosystem’s health, large-scale blooms can have severe negative health impacts. 

The National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science released an alert warning of a cyanobacteria bloom in western Lake Erie that spans around 160 miles. 

People engaging in water activities in areas such as Maumee Bay, Monroe, Port Clinton, the western basin near West Sister Island, and Sandusky Bay are advised to be aware of toxin levels surpassing safe recreational standards. 

The cyanobacteria bloom has created scums and discolored green water that can be dangerous for swimming. 

‘Toxins have been detected below the recreational limit in western Lake Erie. They can be highly concentrated in scums! If you see scum, keep your pets and yourself out of the water,’ the alert read. 

The NCCOS uses satellite imagery and forecasting technology to determine the status of the bloom. Field samples also show the depth and level of toxicity in the water. 

Satellite images taken on Tuesday revealed that the western part of Lake Erie was highlighted in green and blue, meaning high amounts of cyanobacteria were present.

The National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science issued an alert for the western part of Lake Erie due to a bacterial bloom

The bacteria are called cyanobacteria and are known as blue-green algae that produce scum and a foul smell 

The bacteria manifest in freshwater and can turn the water green. It can be dangerous for humans and lethal for pets 

The NCCOS added that high winds can underestimate the full area impacted. Winds can mix the bloom, and clouds can obscure the satellite reading. 

Cyanobacteria are a type of HAB (Harmful Algal Blooms) and can cause harm to the environment and humans. 

Cyanobacteria can also produce a byproduct called cyanotoxins, which can cause diarrhea, headaches, skin irritation, and even death, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. 

The bloom occurs when the water gets warmer, making July to October the peak season for Lake Erie. 

The NCCOS released a seasonal forecast for HABs in Lake Erie in June, predicting the severity would be a three with a potential range of two to four out of ten. 

Scientists expected a predicted bloom severity of mild to moderate, noting the bacteria would concentrate in July, peak in August, and continue until September. 

Gregory J Dick, a professor of Biology at the University of Michigan, wrote in The Conversation that climate change has increased cyanobacteria growth.

Cyanobacteria grow in warmer climates, meaning that temperature increases exacerbate growth. 

The alert was issued for Maumee Bay north, Monroe, Port Clinton, into the western basin on West Sister Island, and Sandusky Bay

Cyanobacteria are essential in maintaining a healthy aquatic ecosystem, but excessive blooms can lead to disastrous health effects

Cyanobacteria can lead to health problems, including diarrhea, headaches, skin irritation, and even death

 Dick added that cyanobacteria can be lethal to pets, and new science suggests that long-term exposure for humans may even exacerbate respiratory, cardiovascular, and gastrointestinal problems. 

These health issues have even been linked to liver cancers, kidney disease, and neurological problems. 

In 2014, a cyanobacteria bloom contaminated Lake Erie, which made its way into the water supply. 

Over 450,000 residents in Toledo were issued an advisory not to drink the water and were forced to purchase bottled water for over two days.