Blue-green algae advisory issued for Lake Nokomis in Minneapolis
MINNEAPOLIS — Swimmers are being warned to stay away from a popular Twin Cities lake ahead of a hot and humid weekend.
The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board announced Wednesday that a blue-green algae advisory is in effect for the Lake Nokomis Main Beach.
The board says a sample from Monday found the lake to have levels that exceeded state-specified guidelines.
Leo Rathman was visiting the beach with his personal care assistant Buzzy Anderson Friday afternoon. Both had previously noticed the soupy green substance here at the beach. They swam through some of it last week but didn't get sick.
The Minnesota Department of Health says blue-green algae can cause symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, rash and headache. Symptoms can begin several hours to two days after exposure. Though it can make humans feel ill, it can be deadly for dogs.
The park board says staff monitors for blue-green algae weekly.
Despite the signage, and lack of any sign of algae in the water Friday, it's business as usual at the lake. Rathman and Anderson made the decision on their own to head into the water, after seeing no algae in the area.
If you do see algae on the water, experts recommend rinsing off right away if you or your pets touch it.
You can check here for water quality advisories in Minneapolis.