Two Toxic Cyanobacteria Blooms Detected In Charles River

WESTON, MA — Weston officials are warning residents to be careful near the Charles River as two active toxic cyanobacteria blooms were detected in the Charles River. A public health advisory was issued for the Lower Basin of the Charles River between the Mass Avenue Bridge and Longfellow Bridge and the Lakes District of the Charles River, between Wares Cove and Fox Island.

This affects Newton, Waltham, and Weston.

The Charles River Watershed Association is closely tracking the cyanobacteria blooms by collecting water samples and visual observations. The association suggests that the public avoid contact with the water in these areas and rinse off with clean water. Cyanobacteria is extremely toxic to pets as well, so keep them out of the water as well.

Cyanobacteria, also called blue-green algae, are bacteria that naturally live in rivers and lakes. The Charles River has had a cyanobacteria bloom in its Lower Basin since June 24, with a brief period of respite last week when the concentration of these organisms temporarily fell below the state’s advisory threshold.