Algae advisories softened

For the first time since May 22, Marion Reservoir no longer faces a blue-green algae advisory or warning, and what had been a warning for Marion County Lake was lowered Friday to a less serious watch.

In all, six Kansas bodies of water will be under warnings until July 25, and 12 will be under watches.

A watch indicates that a harmful bloom may be present. Kansas Department of Health and Environment requires that signs be posted at all public access points.

Visitors are warned that water may be unsafe for humans and animals. Swimming, wading, skiing, and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms. Boating and fishing are safe, but inhalation of spray might affect some people

Direct contact with water should be avoided, and visitors should wash with clean water.

An algae bloom could look like foam, scum, or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown, or red. Blooms can develop rapidly.

Symptoms of illness vary depending on the species of algae. Common symptoms may include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache.