Edmond warns caution as harmful blue-green algae found in Lake Arcadia

Visitors to Edmond's Lake Arcadia are being warned to keep a lookout for harmful blue-green algae.

The Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality has found above-acceptable levels of blue-green algae in an area near the dam, according to the city of Edmond. Arcadia Lake park, beach and boating areas remain open, but lake visitors are asked to be aware of the potential issue and look for signs of blue-green algae before entering the water.

The bloom will not affect the city's drinking water, which is collected from areas where the surface algae doesn't grow. The water is also treated to make safe for public consumption before it reaches the distribution system.

What does blue-green algae look like?

Blue-green algae is made up of small organisms that turn the water its characteristic hue, creating a thick film. Normal green algae, which is harmless, is stringier and made up of grass-green strands.

The ideal conditions for a blue-green algae bloom happen with excessive nutrient pollution and warm temperatures.

To be safe, visitors and their pets should avoid wading, swimming, boating, skiing or ingesting water from areas where this floating film is present. Lake visitors should always shower after coming into contact with surface water, whether or not a blue-green algae bloom appears to be present, to wash away any potentially harmful bacteria.

How does blue-green algae make you sick?

Symptoms related to blue-green algae exposure include a rash, hives or skin blisters, stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, headache, fever, muscle weakness or difficulty breathing.

If you are exposed and experience any of these symptoms, contact a doctor or the Poison Control Center at 800-222-1222 immediately.

Pets are also impacted by swimming in or drinking water with blue-green algae blooms. If you think your pet may have been affected, call your veterinarian right away.

Arcadia Lake staff is monitoring conditions and following the protocols established by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for precautions and response. DEQ was scheduled to return to Lake Arcadia on Monday to continue testing.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Edmond warns caution as harmful blue-green algae found in Lake Arcadia