Warm, stagnant conditions are increasing the likelihood of irritation‑causing algal activity in estuarine and back‑bay areas.
By Coastal Carolina News Staff Writer
North Carolina’s Department of Environmental Quality has released a coastal conditions notice warning residents about pockets of algal‑affected water forming in shallow estuarine zones, including creeks, canals, and Intracoastal Waterway segments in Brunswick County.
The agency says recent stretches of hot weather, limited rainfall, and slow‑moving water have created conditions that allow algae to multiply. While most algal activity is not toxic, NCDEQ advises avoiding water that appears heavily discolored or has surface scum, strong odors, or dead fish present.
Key points from the advisory:
- Algal irritation risks — Some algal accumulations can cause skin, eye, or respiratory irritation for swimmers, anglers, and pets.
- Water discoloration signs — Green, brown, reddish, or unusually cloudy water may indicate active algal growth.
- Odor indicators — Musty or earthy smells often accompany blooms in warm, nutrient‑rich water.
- Localized impacts — Events typically occur in creeks, canals, and shallow estuarine pockets rather than the open Atlantic surf.
NCDEQ encourages residents to keep pets away from discolored water and report significant fish kills or unusual water conditions through the agency’s environmental hotline.
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