'It's very green': Algal bloom shuts down Colchester Beach

Officials with the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit have shut down ColchesterBeach until a thick mat of blue-green algae clears.

• Scientists expect 'significant' algae bloom on Lake Erie

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The reeking mass is believed to be a first for the marina, according to health inspection manager Mike Tudor.

"It's definitely a different colour," he said."It's actually formed a mat on the surface and clumps in the harbour area and it's very green."

Tudor monitored the bloom via satellite images as it floated across Lake Erie from the Ohio area last week.

Algae cells can release toxins as they die, he explained, which can causeeverything from itchy skin and irritated eyes to vomiting and liver damage in the most severe cases.

Look before you leap at area beaches

It's impossible to say when the algae will dissipate and make the water safe again, but WECHUstaff will keep a close eye on it.

The bloom has also caused some beaches on Pelee Island to close, said Tudor, who added swimmers should check signs and water conditions before taking a dip.

"If it looks green I would recommend not going in," he said.