Advisories issued for Panguitch Lake, Lake Powell as Toxic Algae spreads across Utah

Toxic algal blooms have prompted health warnings at more than 20 lakes and reservoirs across Utah, with ad­visories now in effect at Panguitch Lake in Garfield County and parts of Lake Powell, both heavily used by Kane County resi­dents and visitors.

Take care of basic hygienic practices at high-visitation beaches like at Wahweap. Photo via NPS.

The Utah Depart­ment of Environmen­tal Quality (DEQ) said Panguitch Lake is under a Warning Ad­visory after tests con­firmed harmful algae. Officials are urging the public to avoid swimming, drinking the water or allow­ing pets and livestock near the shoreline. The advisory also ex­tends to the White Bridge Campground and downstream from the lake’s dam, accord­ing to the U.S. Forest Service.

In Kane County, lo­cal leaders expressed concern about the im­pact on recreation and tourism. Panguitch Lake is a popular fish­ing and camping area, and fall visitors are being asked to check water quality alerts before heading out. Algae can produce tox­ins that cause rashes, nausea, or more se­vere health effects if ingested.

At Lake Powell, the National Park Service has issued a recre­ational advisory at the mouth of Antelope Canyon, where cyano­toxins were detected at or near the upper limit of safe exposure. Visi­tors are being advised to avoid contact with discolored or scummy water and to keep pets away. While no broad closures have been an­nounced, boaters and swimmers are asked to steer clear of affected areas.

Statewide, DEQ sci­entists said cooler weather may slow bloom growth, but toxins can remain even after algae dissipates. Anglers are advised to clean fish thoroughly and discard guts and skin.

More information and updated adviso­ries are available on the DEQ website at deq.utah.gov