Toxic algae scum spotted in Lake Washington
As a precaution, Seattle Parks and Recreation has temporarily closed access to the water at Matthews Beach Park in northeast Seattle.
Toxic algae has been found in accumulated scum in Lake Washington along the shores of Matthews Beach, which is located at 49th Ave. NE and NE 93rd St. Toxic algae blooms are most common in the summer and fall, but can occur any time.
King County Department of Natural Resources collected water samples and submitted them to the State Toxic Algae Program. The information was reviewed by Public Health – Seattle & King County. Tests have revealed that the toxins are currently found in the scummy algae that accumulate in some places along the shore.
In general, people and pets should not wade or play in the lake, especially where the scum has accumulated, and dogs should not drink from the lake. If there is water contact, it is important to rinse well to remove all algae.
For more information on toxic algae and symptoms of toxic poisoning, please visit Washington Department of Health toxic algae website.