Loch warning as dangerous algae appears
Euro Championships venue
In just one month it will be one of the main venues for the 2018 European Championships – but this week people have been warned to stay out of Strathclyde Loch.
The rowing and triathlon events will be held at the venue when Lanarkshire welcomes athletes from across the continent.
However, North Lanarkshire Council have temporarily cancelled all water sports and activities after blue-green algae was discovered.
A spokesperson said: “As a result of the current high temperatures, Strathclyde Loch is affected by blue-green algae.
“This is a common issue in areas of fresh water, particularly during the summer, and we monitor the water regularly.
“When blue-green algae appears in the water, our water quality protocol is activated to manage water-based activities on the loch and maintain public health.
“Swimming and other immersion sports are restricted and we recommend users wash their hands thoroughly after being at the loch.
“We also have notices around the loch advising visitors to avoid contact with the water and not to allow dogs to enter or drink the water.”
However, the council advised that the upcoming championships will still go ahead.
The spokesperson added: “We can use curtain barriers in place at the south end of the loch to allow the algae to be treated for major events.
“The barrier and treatment of the water will be used ahead of the rowing and triathlon events at European Championships Glasgow 2018 which take place at Strathclyde Park in August.”
Warm weather conditions can result in algae blooms.
Symptoms of exposure to bluegreen algae in humans (meaning contact with or ingestion of affected water) include abdominal pains, vomiting, diarrhoea, sore throats and blistering in the mouth.
More serious effects, such as atypical pneumonia and gastroenteritis are also possible. Ingestion of the toxic scums that can be formed by the algae is also reported to have caused deaths in cattle, sheep, dogs, birds and fish.
Warning signs have been displayed around the park advising walkers to avoid the water at all costs.
They state: “In order to protect your health and your dogs you should avoid contact with the water.”