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Harmful algal bloom shuts down swimming in Riverside County’s Lake Hemet
A boat motors through green water during a harmful algal bloom in at Lake Elsinore, in 2022. Now another Riverside County lake, Lake Hemet, is reporting issues.
(
David McNew
/
Getty Images
)
Topline:
Visitors and residents are being warned to avoid swimming in another Southern California lake heading into the long Labor Day weekend.
The details: State water officials confirmed a harmful algal bloom in Lake Hemet that’s showing up as green, cloudy discolored water, scum and algae.
Why it matters: The bloom can produce toxins that could cause you and your furry friends to get sick. People and pets are being urged to stay out of the water and away from any scum or algae along the shore. Dogs and children are especially vulnerable because they’re more likely to swallow water while playing and swimming, according to the State Water Resources Control Board. You can learn more about healthy water habits here.
Why now: The warning for the Riverside County lake comes about a week after a similar alert was issued for Big Bear Lake. Lake Hemet is under an advisory until further notice, state officials said.
The backstory: Harmful algal blooms are most common in California between the warmer months of late May through October, although they can pop up year round, according to the board.
What's next: You can check California’s map to see if any harmful algal blooms have been reported in the area.
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Go deeper: What's the green sheen on Big Bear Lake? What you need to know about harmful algal blooms
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