VDH issues an algae mat warning in the Shenandoah River

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has issued an algal mat warning for the North Fork of the Shenandoah River.

The warning extends just over 11.5 miles from the Deer Rapids Bridge to Strasburg.

Recreational users of the Shenandoah should be alert and careful and avoid the mats, as they do not currently pose a health hazard.

Recreational users of the river must avoid the algal mats that are patchy and widespread throughout the area.

The current hot weather is contributing to the rapid spread of blooms, so it is important to remain vigilant.

The region’s drinking water authorities are monitoring the situation and coordinating with the waterworks to take appropriate measures if necessary.

The algae mats could be toxic. Results are still pending when the current water samples are examined.

For safety reasons, swimmers and pets should be kept away from the mats.

If the results of the current samples show that the safe limits for toxins for swimming are exceeded, a warning will be issued instead of this alert message.

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