Photo: Jay Willett/WBZ NewsRadio
BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) —The Boston Public Health Commission and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health are warning folks to stay away from the Charles River.
Officials say a dangerous Cyanobacteria bloom has popped up within the river water, making it extremely dangerous to be around. The Charles River Watershed Association said just a splash of this dirty water on your skin can cause a severe rash.
It’s affected a majority of the Charles River, especially towards the Lower Basin area near the Hatch Shell. C.R.W.A member Julie Wood said there’s a reason for the bloom.
“We have been in a drought now for many, many months, multiple years in fact. The water can get shallow, slow moving, and heat up,” said Wood. “That creates a really good environment for cyanobacteria because they’re not super picky.”
She said that’s not the only problem. Phosphorus and nutrient runoff pollution from storm water has also been posing an issue.
“It’s like a massive bouquet,” said Wood.
Pet owners are being warned as well. Back in July, a dog died 48-hours after swimming in the Charles River.
“Please make sure you’re not letting your dogs drink the water,” said Wood.
More information on the bloom can be found on the C.R.W.A website here.
WBZ NewsRadio's Jay Willett (@JayWillettWBZ) reports.