The Cayuga County Health Department is urging residents to remain vigilant after two harmful algal blooms, commonly known as HABs, were confirmed on Cayuga Lake this week.
The latest reports bring the total number of confirmed HABs on the lake to three so far in 2026. Health officials are reminding the public to take precautions when recreating on local waterways and to be aware of the potential health risks associated with exposure to the blooms.
According to the Health Department, HABs can appear as shades of green, blue-green, yellow, brown, or red on the water’s surface. Blooms may also resemble parallel streaks, floating green dots or clumps, or spilled paint.
Officials advise people, pets, and livestock to avoid any contact with water that appears discolored or contains floating mats or scum. Swimming, fishing, or wading in areas where HABs are suspected or confirmed is strongly discouraged.
Anyone who comes into contact with potentially contaminated water should rinse immediately with clean water. Health officials also caution against drinking, cooking with, or preparing food using untreated lake water, regardless of whether a bloom is visible. During active blooms, private water supplies drawn directly from affected lakes should not be used for showering, bathing, or washing dishes.
Residents who observe a suspected harmful algal bloom are encouraged to report it through the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s online reporting system or by emailing [email protected].
Exposure to HABs can cause symptoms in people and animals, including diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, skin irritation, eye irritation, and respiratory problems. Anyone experiencing symptoms after contact with a bloom should contact a healthcare provider, while pet owners should consult a veterinarian if their animals become ill.
Because HABs are common during the warmer months, the Cayuga County Health Department said it will no longer issue a press release for every confirmed bloom. Instead, officials encourage residents planning to visit public swimming areas to contact beach operators beforehand to confirm whether conditions are safe for swimming.
Additional information about harmful algal blooms and water safety can be found through the Cayuga County Health Department and the DEC’s statewide HAB monitoring resources.
