New Hampshire officials recently issued warnings about dangerous algae blooms on Lake Winnipesaukee. Cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, were found at several beaches in Wolfeboro and Tuftonboro. Visitors are advised to stay out of the water and keep their pets away from affected areas.
The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services detected high concentrations of cyanobacteria at Carry and Brewster beaches in Wolfeboro, as well as at 19-Mile Bay and Tuftonboro Neck in Tuftonboro. These algae blooms can be identified as green clouds of material along the shorelines, and in some areas, they may appear yellow due to mixing with dense pollen.
Exposure to cyanobacteria can lead to various symptoms such as skin irritation, stomach cramps, vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, headache, muscle and joint pain, mouth blisters, and even acute liver damage. It is crucial for visitors to avoid any contact with the water in these areas to prevent any health issues.
The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services plans to conduct resampling of the affected areas on June 19 and will continue to monitor the situation weekly if the algae blooms persist. It is essential for the safety and well-being of residents and visitors to heed these warnings and stay away from the affected areas to avoid any potential health risks associated with cyanobacteria exposure.