TOPEKA, Kan. (KSNW) —  As spring weather returns and Kansans head outdoors, state health and wildlife officials are sounding the alarm: toxic algae season is back. Algal blooms can pose serious health risks to people and pets, prompting officials to encourage residents to remain vigilant in la kes and other water bodies. Awareness and caution are key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable summer. Lithium battery fire in WSU Tech automotive lab The algal monitoring season runs from April 1 to October 31, coinciding with the state’s busiest swimming, boating, and fishing months. During this period, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment will actively respond to reports of potentially toxic algae in public lakes and reservoirs across Kansas. Harmful algal blooms (HAB), which can resemble foam, scum, or paint floating on the water, often appear blue, green, brown, or red. They can develop rapidly and release dangerous toxins through direct contact, ingestion, or inhalation. KDHE warns that symptoms from exposure may include skin rashes, vomiting, diarrhea, sore throat, and headaches. “If the water looks suspicious or you notice decaying algae on the shore, it’s best to stay out — and keep pets away, too,” KDHE advised. If you or your pets contact algae, rinse off with clean water. Report any suspected HAB-related health incidents at kdhe.ks.gov/1163. Three advisory levels for public safety Kansas uses a three-tier advisory system to inform the public about HAB conditions: Hazard Status: Indicates extreme conditions. Parts of or entire lakes may be closed to the public, and signage will be posted. Adjacent land may also be restricted. Warning Status: Signals the presence or high likelihood of HABs. Direct contact with water is discouraged. Pets and livestock should not drink lake water. Fish are safe to eat only if cleaned properly and only the fillet is consumed. Watch Status: Suggests a HAB may be developing. Activities like swimming or jet skiing near visible blooms are discouraged, but boating and fishing remain generally safe with caution. All warnings come with the recommendation to avoid areas with visible algae and to rinse off immediately after any contact with affected water. New health risk: Harmful Algal Mats (HAMs) In a developing concern, KDHE identified a new algae-related risk in late 2024, Harmful Algal Mats (HAMs). Unlike traditional HABs that float on the surface, HAMs grow on the bottom of waterbodies and may appear as brown or black carpets. These mats can detach, float to the surface, or wash up on shore. HAMs can produce the same dangerous toxins as HABs but are harder to detect. Officials warn that even clear-looking water can be hazardous if these mats are present. Small children and dogs are especially at risk due to potential ingestion or contact with disturbed mat material. KDHE will notify lake managers if HAMs are found and recommends precautions such as avoiding contact with mats, not ingesting lake water, and thoroughly rinsing off after recreation. To report health concerns: kdhe.ks.gov/1163 ...read more read less