Warning over blue-green algae at beach

People are being advised to avoid the water at Portstewart Strand due to the presence of blue-green algae scums.

The National Trust at Portstewart Strand said the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera) made it aware of the algae scums appearing on the beach following strong winds over the weekend.

While the National Trust awaits test results, these scums could post a risk to public health and, as a precautionary measure, a notice advising people not to enter the water has been issued.

“With this, we ask that all visitors remain vigilant and stay away from the water. We advise that you do not swim, wade, fish, boat, or kayak at this time,” the notice said.

Due to the risk the scum poses to dogs, all dog walkers are being asked to take “extra care and keep their pets on leads at all times” during the warning.

The National Trust said Daera will continue to monitor Portstewart Strand and advise of any changes.

The presence of blue-green algae at Portstewart Strand comes as the issue of algae at Lough Neagh persists.

Blue-green algae has been detected in the lough intermittently over the past six decades.

But the past three summers have seen the biggest blooms since the 1970s.