Rhode Island health and environmental officials are advising the public to avoid all contact with Lower Melville Pond in Portsmouth and Tiogue Lake in Coventry after harmful algae blooms were detected at both locations.
The Rhode Island Department of Health and the Department of Environmental Management recommend avoiding swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking at both waterbodies until further notice. The blooms are caused by blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, which can produce toxins harmful to humans and animals.
People should not drink untreated water from either location or eat fish caught there. Pet owners should keep animals out of the water and away from shoreline scum; if a pet is exposed, wash it immediately with clean water and contact a veterinarian if symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy develop within a day.
Skin contact with bloom-affected water can cause rashes, eye and nose irritation, and sore throat. Swallowing the water can cause stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. More serious effects, though less common, can include liver damage, irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or seizures. Young children, pets, and immunocompromised individuals are at greater risk.
Harmful algae blooms may look like green paint, pea soup, or green cottage cheese along the shoreline. The advisory will remain in effect until water samples confirm the bloom has cleared.
To report a suspected bloom, contact DEM at DEM.OWRCyano@dem.ri.gov or 401-222-4700. Current advisories are tracked at dem.ri.gov/bluegreen.
