Harmful Algal Blooms Reported at 2 Major West Michigan Lakes

The weather forecast for this coming week is looking pretty warm with temps during the week in the mid 90s, then heading into the weekend it gets a bit cooler with temps in the mid 80s.

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With these warm temps you're probably going to be looking for a nice place to cool off and get away from the hot sun.

Michigan has many inland lakes where you can go to and enjoy, but two lakes in West Michigan have had reports of harmful algae blooms

2 Big Lakes In West Michigan Have Reports Of Harmful Algae Blooms

Those two lakes are Muskegon Lake and Gun Lake.

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) says that cyanobacteria, commonly known as blue-green algae was reported on Muskegon Lake on July 3, but no tests have confirmed it.

However Gun Lake has test results that confirmed harmful algae blooms

The Barry-Eaton District Health Department says that they confirmed harmful algae blooms was found on Gun Lake on Thursday, July 9.

Both of these lakes currently remain open to the public but there are some things you should avoid and know about.

• People should avoid any contact with water that appears bright green, blue-green, brown or red or has “floating mats of scum.”
• If your pet comes into contact with the algae rinse it off as soon as possible with clean, fresh water.

If you do end up getting exposed to the harmful algae it could cause a rash or irritation to your skin, eyes, nose and throat.

Other unfortunate things include stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, fever and trouble breathing.

If you think you've seen any harmful algae blooms you can report it to EGLE 

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