The Florida Department of Health in Orange County has issued a blue-green algae alert for three Orlando lakes.
Health officials issued the alert on Tuesday for Lake Estelle, Lake Speer, and Lake Mann, after water samples taken over the past two weeks showed the presence of blue-green algal toxins.
Visitors to the three lakes are advised to not drink, swim, wade, use personal watercraft, water ski or boat in waters where there is a visible bloom. Officials also caution pet and livestock owners to keep their animals away from waters.
In addition, anyone fishing in the three lakes should avoid eating shellfish. Eating fillets from healthy fish caught in freshwater lakes experiencing blooms is safe, according to the release.
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) collects algae samples from reported bloom locations for toxin analysis. Once completed, the results are posted on the DEP Algal Bloom Dashboard.
To report a bloom to FDEP, call the toll-free hotline at 855-305-3903 or report it online.