Warning messages are set to remain in place around Highbridge’s Apex Park lakes after new tests this week found ‘potentially toxic’ algae is still present.
Sedgemoor District Council told Burnham-On-Sea.com on Saturday morning (August 18th).
“Samples taken this morning from the south east corner and the slipway show that blue-green algae is still present. It’s unlikely to subside for a few weeks unless there is heavy rain or lots of cloudy days and signs will therefore need to remain in place,” council spokesperson Claire Faun told Burnham-On-Sea.com.
Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge dog walkers have been urged to stay away from the water due to the algae.
The water, if touched, could cause skin irritation or an ‘upset stomach’ and can be dangerous to dogs.
The green algae has been a frequent occurence during periods of hot weather over recent years.
As a precaution, visitors have been advised to stay away from the water and dog owners have been advised to keep their pets from entering the lakes.
Visitors should also avoid “prolonged contact” with the lake and avoid eating the area’s fish where algae is present.
The council is urging visitors not to swim in the water, not to let dogs in the water or let them drink it, nor to swallow the water, and to avoid contact with the algae, not to eat fish caught from the water, and to observe and abide by any warning notices positioned around the water.
