Palmer Lake Closed By Toxic Algae Bloom

GIG HARBOR, WA — Experts with the Tacoma - Pierce County Health Department have closed Palmer Lake until further notice because of high levels of toxic algae in the water.

A caution advisory had been issued for the lake back on August 26, when health officials urged people to keep away from parts of the lake with visible algae. But in the days since, they've retested the water and found the whole lake had "very high levels" of algae toxins, and now they're closing it off entirely to the public.

That means people and pets both need to stay away and out of the water— no swimming, wading, or fishing of any kind.

The algae is especially dangerous for pets, because they're more likely to drink the water or lick the toxins out of their fur. If your pet shows any of these symptoms after being exposed to algae, call a vet immediately:

• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Convulsions
• Difficulty breathing

Toxic algae can also cause symptoms like muscle weakness, vomiting, diarrhea and nausea in humans. If you or a pet are exposed to water containing the algae, experts say to rinse off immediately and keep a sharp eye out for symptoms.

Investigators will check the lake again next week to see if conditions have improved, but say that, even if the algae is gone, the lake will be closed for at least a minimum of two weeks.