Toxic Algae Caution Advisory Issued For Palmer Lake

GIG HARBOR, WA — Experts with the Tacoma - Pierce County Health Department are asking visitors to Palmer Lake to use caution, after detecting trace amounts of toxic algae in the water.

A caution advisory means everyone needs to check the water for visible algae before heading in. If visitors do spot algae, they shouldn't swim, wade, water ski, or fish in the water, the health department said.

Crews first sampled the lake on Monday, but didn't receive the lab results until Thursday, at which point the health department immediately issued the warning. Investigators will check the lake again next week to see if conditions have improved, but the advisory will remain in place for at least two weeks.

Algae is not a new problem for Palmer Lake, which had to be completely closed to the public last September for an especially dangerous algae bloom.

The algae is particularly 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.

>> Learn more about the advisory and algae safety from the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department.