[CLSTR]
< Back to situations

Monitor this situation.

[SITUATION] · [ACTIVE] · [HEALTH]

2 clusters · 3 sources · 20 days · First seen · Last updated

Cyanobacteria blooms in Alberta lakes

Overview

Alberta Health Services issued a health advisory for Matchayaw (Devil’s) Lake, located approximately 60 km west of Edmonton, after identifying cyanobacterial (blue-green algal) blooms and toxins in the water.

Authorities have advised the public to avoid swimming or wading in areas with visible blooms and to prevent all contact with algae in the water or on the shore. Potential symptoms of contact include skin irritation, rashes, sore throats, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, typically appearing within one to three hours.

Officials warned residents and visitors not to drink or cook with water from the lake, noting that boiling does not remove the toxins. For food safety, it is recommended to eat only fish fillets rather than whole fish or trimmings, as toxins may be stored in the liver. Pets should also be kept away from the water to prevent potentially fatal exposure.

Entities

Matchayaw Lake · Alberta Health Services

Timeline

  1. 5 days ago

    [HEALTH] 3 sources
    Alberta Health Services issues advisory for Matchayaw Lake

    Alberta Health Services has issued an advisory for Matchayaw (Devil’s) Lake due to cyanobacterial blooms, warning against swimming, drinking the water, or consuming whole fish from the lake.

  2. 24 days ago

    [HEALTH] 3 sources
    Takysie Lake, BC Faces Toxic Blue‑Green Algae Bloom

    Cyanobacteria bloom confirmed in BC's Takysie Lake; two animal poisonings reported. Public urged to avoid water contact, drinking, and to keep animals away. Resort under water ban, bringing in safe water.

Sources

bigcheese1079.com · calgary.citynews.ca · edmonton.citynews.ca