Council warns of algal blooms

The ongoing hot spell has prompted a warning over algal blooms on local waterways.

Appearing as a green scum along shorelines, the growths are known to cause skin irritation and can be toxic if ingested.

Algal blooms occur in nutrient rich water, particularly water with a high concentration of nitrogen or phosphorus.

Stagnant or slow moving waterways like lakes are particularly prone to the growths.

Cavan County Council has issued a warning to locals ahead of the weekend.

“Please exercise caution. You are advised to avoid contact with algal blooms as they may cause skin irritation or be toxic if ingested”, it reads.

It says dogs in particular are sensitive to algal blooms and owners are advised to keep their pets away from affected waterways and shorelines.