Don't go swimming at Pyramid Lake due to toxic algae bloom, water officials say

State water officials are urging people to avoid any contact with the water at Pyramid Lake because of a toxic algae bloom that has developed on the Los Angeles County reservoir.

In a statement issued Tuesday, the Califoia Department of Water Resources advised the public to not wade, swim or water-ski at the lake and to keep dogs and children away from the water.

“Activities near the water such as picnicking and hiking are safe,” the statement read. “Because these blooms can form and die off fairly rapidly, DWR has increased its monitoring of the water quality in Pyramid Lake throughout the summer recreation season and will update this advisory if conditions change.”

The algae bloom is made up of a type of bacteria growing in lakes and rivers all over the world. Cyanobacteria, commonly known as blue-green algae, produces potent toxins that sicken people and animals.

This is the second time the state has issued a waing about the bacteria and its toxins at Pyramid, one of more than 30 drinking water storage facilities, reservoirs and lakes that make up the Califoia State Water Project.

The toxins can cause a wide range of adverse health effects, including skin rashes, diarrhea and headaches.

“People can be exposed to the toxins when they accidently ingest water while swimming or waterskiing,” the statement read. “The toxins can also contact the skin during swimming or be inhaled if they become aerosolized, such as during waterskiing or jet skiing.”

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