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Toxic Algae Alert: South Florida Canal Poses Health Risk
16 Jan
Summary
- Toxic blue-green algae detected in South Miami's Twin Lakes Canal.
- Health officials advise avoiding contact with canal water.
- Pets and livestock are particularly at risk from the toxins.
State health officials are urging the public to avoid the Twin Lakes Canal in South Miami following the detection of toxic blue-green algae. Water sample testing is currently underway, and advisory signs have been posted near Southwest 65th Avenue and 68th Street. The Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County emphasized the potential dangers, advising against drinking, swimming, or wading in the affected waters.
Residents and visitors are cautioned to wash thoroughly with soap and water if contact occurs and to keep pets and livestock away from the canal. Health officials noted that blue-green algae, a common bacteria in Florida, can produce toxins detrimental to humans, animals, and the ecosystem. Environmental factors like sunny days, warm water, and excess nutrients contribute to bloom formation.
Information on current water statuses and advisories can be found on the Protecting Florida Together website or the DEP's Algal Bloom Dashboard. The DOH-Miami Dade also provided contact numbers for health questions and reporting dead wildlife, stressing that boiling water will not eliminate the toxins. Experts advise immediate veterinary care for exposed pets.
