The Microcystis cyanobacteria bloom is present in western Lake Erie but cloud cover and winds prevent determining the area. Strong winds over the last several days have reduced the intensity of the cyanobacterial bloom and encouraged growth of non-harmful phytoplankton, reported Dr. Richard Stumpf on Monday, Sept. 20, a member of NOAA’s National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science.

The bloom still extends from Stony Point, north of Monroe, Mich., to the Sandusky area. Cyanobacteria unrelated to western Lake Erie is detectable in parts of Sandusky Bay in combination with other algae. Toxins have been detected below the recreational limit. They can be highly concentrated in scums, so if you see scum, keep your pets and yourself out of the water.