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Harmful Algal Bloom Warning For Ohio River, Drinking Water Safe

Gregory Heath
/
CSIRO
Blue-green algae or cyanobacteria.

Local health departments are warning conditions are ripe for blue-green algae blooms on the Ohio River this weekend.

Blooms were spotted in Portsmouth earlier this week.

Greater Cincinnati Water Works is monitoring the river and has processes in place to treat any contamination before it enters the water supply.

Hamilton County Public Health says river activities are still safe but you should keep an eye out for anything that:

  • Looks like spilled paint
  • Has surface scums, mats or films
  • Is discolored or has colored streaks
  • Has green globs floating below the surface.

Swallowing affected water may increase the risk of stomach pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Skin, eye and throat irritation and/or breathing difficulties may also occur after contact.

Senior Editor and reporter at WVXU with more than 20 years experience in public radio; formerly news and public affairs producer with WMUB. Would really like to meet your dog.