Harmful blue-green algae closes Hamilton beach

Hamilton Public Health has closed Pier 4 Park Beach after testing confirmed the presence of toxin-producing blue-green algae.

The beach will remain closed until the algae — called Cyanobacteria — subsides.

Warning signs are being posted, and health officials say they will continue monitoring water conditions.

Residents are urged to avoid contact with the water along the shoreline and to keep pets away from any visible blue-green algae.

Exposure can cause skin and eye irritation, rashes, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.

Anyone exposed to the water should wash themselves as soon as possible with clean water. If symptoms arise, people are advised to contact their primary care provider.

Officials say Hamilton’s drinking water is not affected.

Blue-green algae can form in warm, shallow, slow-moving water, particularly during the summer months when temperatures fluctuate.

Algae and vegetation in the water can give off an offensive odour as it dies and decays.

The City of Hamilton has webpages dedicated to information about harmful algal blooms and beach water quality.

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