A large lake in the state of California (USA) has changed color. This phenomenon can be observed from space.
Clear Lake is the largest freshwater lake in California, located more than 160 km from San Francisco.
Clear Lake covers an area of over 176.2 km2 and has a depth of more than 90 meters. It is a popular destination for activities such as tourism, camping, swimming, fishing, boating, and water skiing.
Clear Lake has turned emerald green, a phenomenon observable from space (Photo: NASA).
Recently, a special phenomenon occurred at this lake. Specifically, the water in Clear Lake has turned a brilliant emerald green, due to a massive algal bloom within the lake.
The density of the algae has changed the color of this vast lake to the extent that NASA satellites can capture images of the phenomenon from space.
Scientists have identified the culprit behind the vibrant color of Clear Lake as cyanobacteria, commonly known as blue-green algae, along with other phytoplankton species.
While many view the color change of Clear Lake as an interesting phenomenon that could attract tourists, scientists warn that this is a deadly occurrence that can pose dangers to humans.
Researchers state that algal blooms pose a threat to both aquatic life in the lake and humans. The bloom of blue-green algae can produce potent toxins, causing skin rashes, eye irritation, and respiratory issues for those who come into contact with the water.
In some cases, it can even lead to stomach inflammation, intestinal irritation, liver and kidney failure, or even death if individuals accidentally ingest water from Clear Lake while swimming or boating during the bloom.
The toxins produced by the algal bloom can also cause massive die-offs of aquatic organisms.
When blue-green algae bloom under favorable conditions, they can produce toxins called cyanotoxins, which directly affect nerve cells, causing muscle spasms and respiratory paralysis in both humans and animals if inhaled.
The toxins released by algal blooms can disperse in the water and spread through the air, causing severe environmental harm.
Authorities have now warned visitors to stay away from Clear Lake, advising against camping, swimming, fishing, or water skiing in the area to avoid exposure to these toxins. The California authorities are currently sampling water from Clear Lake to monitor the toxicity levels caused by the algal bloom.
In fact, algal blooms are not uncommon at Clear Lake. However, scientists have noted that this year, the algal bloom has occurred earlier and with greater severity than in previous years.
