NOAA forecasts moderate harmful algal bloom for western Lake Erie

NOAA and its research partners are forecasting a moderate harmful algal bloom (HAB) in western Lake Erie this summer. The annual forecast, released June 25, projects the bloom could range from 3 to 4.5 on the severity index, placing it in the moderate category.

“Toxic algae affect not only the health of people and Great Lakes ecosystems, but they can negatively impact local and regional economies by preventing people from fishing, swimming, boating and visiting the shoreline,” said Nicole LeBoeuf, assistant administrator for NOAA’s National Ocean Service. “NOAA’s Lake Erie harmful algal bloom forecast is designed to provide timely, science-based information to water managers and public health officials as they make decisions to protect their communities and visitors.”

NOAA expects to see a visible bloom by mid-July. The bloom’s timeline will depend on the frequency of high winds in September, which cannot be predicted this far in advance. Most of the bloom will remain in areas of the lake’s western basin.… Continue reading