SOUTH PADRE ISLAND — Blue-green algae drifted into the waters at Isla Blanca Park yesterday.
Cameron County Parks Director Joe Vega confirmed yesterday blue- green algae was found and the algae had been tested.
“Public safety is our priority, so we took immediate steps to ensure this was nothing to cause concern,” Cameron County Judge Eddie Trevino said.
“I am happy to report that the beaches are open.”
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, harmful algal blooms are overgrowths of algae in water.
According to a press release from Cameron County, authorities were notified of the blue-green algae by beachgoers.
Blue-green algae will tend to foam when it encounters wave action, which made those on the beach concerned.
Blue-green algae occurs naturally and was likely pushed to shore along with the seaweed that is typical during this time of year following a cold front.
“Upon arriving on the scene, public safety personnel asked swimmers to leave the water as a preventative measure,” SPI Mayor Barry Patel said.
“A sample was taken to the UTRGV Coastal Studies Lab where it was identified as blue-green algae, which is not harmful to humans.”
The identification of the blue-green algae was confirmed with a second test performed by the city of South Padre Island.
Some algae produce dangerous toxins in fresh or marine water. Harmful algal blooms can produce extremely dangerous toxins that can sicken people and kill animals if ingested.
Patel said this occurrence has been seen in the past, and algae has already started to disappear.
“We would not let anyone in the water if there was any danger involved,” Patel said. “We have been assured that the water is perfectly safe to swim.”
