Council urges people to stay out of water after algae warning in Llanelli’s North Dock

Carmarthenshire Council has issued a warning to members of the public to avoid coming into contact with the water while signs are in place warning of the possibility of contamination through natural causes.

The algae may cause illness in both humans and animals, so people are being advised not to swim in the water or swallow water.

They are being urged to avoid contact with the algae and not to allow pets to come into contact with the water.

Tests carried out at North Dock, Llanelli, by Natural Resources Wales confirmed algae presence.

The council say that this is despite improvements to the water circulation.

Carmarthenshire Council say the situation will be monitored at North Dock and they will continue to work with partners to understand how these naturally occurring blooms can be resolved.

Cllr Aled Vaughan Owen, Carmarthenshire’s Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Decarbonisation and Sustainability said: “The build-up of algae and algae blooms is a natural occurrence which happens from time to time, particularly during periods of hot weather. We recognise the disappointment that the users of North Dock will have regarding this news, however the Council takes its responsibility towards the public health of its residents and visitors as a top priority hence why the notices advising not to enter the water have been put in place around North Dock. We are urging people to abide by the warning we have issued. We will continue to monitor the situation alongside partners and will keep members of the public updated.”

Public Health Wales advises the algae can produce toxins which can cause skin rashes, nausea, vomiting, stomach pains, fever and headache if swallowed.

(Lead image: Jaggery / Wikimedia)