Harmful algal bloom advisory issued for Benton County lake

SILOAM SPRINGS, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — A harmful algal bloom advisory has been issued for a Benton County lake, according to a news release .

The Arkansas Department of Energy and Environment’s Division of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) says the harmful algal bloom was detected in Lake Flint Creek in Siloam Springs.

ADEQ issued the advisory on September 24 and is encouraging the public to avoid contact with water in the affected area.

The department says harmful algal blooms can produce toxic substances that can result in weakness, headaches, shortness of breath, muscle spasms and gastrointestinal illnesses.

Cyanobacteria (the organism making up a harmful algal bloom) have been visually confirmed and supported by preliminary testing,” ADEQ said in the release.

The department says to be cautious of exposure in children, pets and livestock and mentioned to wash animals off with clean tap water. ADEQ also said to avoid letting the animals ingest the toxins when cleaning their coats.

ADEQ is monitoring the situation and says it will lift the advisory when the bloom dissipates.

If you suspect a harmful algal bloom, ADEQ says to avoid contact with it and report it at habs@adeq.state.ar.us or call 501-682-0744.

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