Just a heads up if you’re planning on heading out on a hike.
The Capital Regional District (CRD) and Island Health are warning the public of a blue-green algae bloom at Durrance Lake, located in Mount Work Regional Park.
Visitors are being warned to avoid swimming in the lake and to keep their animals on a leash to prevent them from drinking or swimming in the water until further notice.
The algae can produce cyanotoxins, which are known to cause a range of symptoms in humans, including headaches and abdominal pain.
For dogs, ingestion of these toxins can lead to lethal liver damage.
Although the algae usually produce a visible blue-green sheen on the water, some blooms may not be visible, and toxins can still be present even if the bloom is not visible.
The CRD and Island Health have stated that the blooms are unpredictable and may occur at any time.
Visitors to the area are advised to check for updates on the advisory and to follow any further instructions given by the authorities.
The advisory will remain in effect until further notice, and it is recommended that visitors avoid any contact with the water until the advisory has been lifted.
Anyone who believes they may have come into contact with the blue-green algae or who is experiencing symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.
