A dense, annual-blooming marine algae species is causing discolored water called a “red tide” in the Chesapeake Bay off the coast of Virginia’s Eastern Shore, according to the Virginia Department of Health (VDH).
On September 21, VDH warned the public of the bloom. A bloom also currently at the mouth of the Rappahannock and is likely to bloom in the York and James Rivers to the south, according to VDH.
VDH said the bloom is not harmful to people; however, the dense algae cells may cause skin irritation. VDH advises people and pets to avoid contact with bloom water. Additional health information is available on the VDH website.
Alexandirum monilatum is the dominant algae present. It may bioluminesce or glow at night and cause the water to smell.
VDH says there are no concerns related to harvesting and consuming fish or shellfish exposed to these algae. The toxins are only known to impact the fish themselves.
Updated information regarding algae blooms can be found on the VDH Harmful Algal Bloom dashboard. You may report bloom observations with a photo to the VDH Online HAB Report Form.
Stakeholders can report fish kills to the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) on the myDEQ Portal.
More information on recreational water safety, is available visit www.SwimHealthyVA.com.
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