OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Osceola County is notifying residents of blue-green algae bloom caution for Fish Lake near Kissimmee.
>>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<
Read: Would-be record hammerhead shark released out of respect, South Carolina captain says
On Tuesday the Florida Department of Health in Osceola County issued a heath alert after water tests showed the presence of the harmful toxins.
See map of area below:
Officials learned of the blooms after water samples showed evidence of the possible contamination July 14.
READ: Hot and humid, with rain moving in across Central Florida
Because blooms have the potential to produce toxins, health officials advise people to take the following precautions:
-Do not drink, swim, wade or boat in waters where there is a visible bloom.
-Avoid getting water in your eyes, nose or mouth
-Keep pets and livestock away from the waters where there is a bloom.
Read: Mooove over: Cows stop traffic on Florida Turnpike after hauler catches fire
Blue-green algae is a common occurrence in freshwater environments throughout Florida and can appear year-round.
WATCH: St. Cloud business owners say downtown construction is costing them customers
More information about Florida’s water quality status and public health notifications can be found here.
To report an algal bloom contact FDEP at 855-305-3903 or online.
Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.