Florida blue-green algae warnings need a current water check

Blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, can change quickly. The way the water looks cannot tell you whether a bloom is producing toxins, so begin with the exact freshwater body and the date of the latest sample or health notice.

DEP and its partners collect freshwater bloom reports and samples. Florida Health uses sampling information to issue cautions and alerts through county health departments. Check both the statewide dashboard and current local signs before swimming, paddling, fishing, or letting a pet near the edge.

Marine red tide is a different check. FWC monitors marine water for red tide, while DEP leads the freshwater blue-green algae response. A coastal plan may need both sources, but one map does not stand in for the other.

Avoid water with a visible bloom or active alert and keep pets out. After contact, wash exposed skin and clothing with soap and water. The official reporting page routes suspected freshwater blooms to DEP, health symptoms to Poison Control, and fish kills to FWC.