Update: Toxic algae warning lifted Wednesday for this Pierce County lake
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Toxic algae advisory issued for Silver Lake near Eatonville due to health risks.
- Officials warn against swimming, fishing or allowing pets near affected waters.
- Health department plans further testing; advisory stays for two weeks after bloom is gone.
Update: The toxic algae caution advisory for Silver Lake has been lifted, the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department announced in a news release Oct. 15.
Initial post:
Stay away from toxic algae in Silver Lake, health department officials warned in an advisory Thursday.
“When you see algae, don’t swim, wade, waterski, or fish,” the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department website says. “Keep in mind as wind direction changes, the algae could move elsewhere in the lake. When in doubt, stay out!”
Signs are posted at the lake to notify visitors of the advisory.
Toxic algae can take different shapes and colors. The algae can form a layer of scum and appear similar to green pea soup. They “can also look streaky, be dispersed in the water column, or form clumps.” Though the algae is usually green, they can also be brown, red and blueish, according to the department.
Health department officials will test the waters again next week after samples this week came back Thursday. If the bloom is gone, officials will keep the advisory in place for another two weeks as a precaution, the health department advisory says.
Toxic algae can make you sick. Also known as cyanobacteria, toxic algae exists naturally in lakes but can produce toxins that can cause muscle weakness, vomiting, diarrhea and nausea. Your skin also can become irritated or get a rash if it comes in contact with toxic algae.
Visit your medical provider if you show symptoms after being in contact with potentially contaminated water. Pets also are susceptible to illness if they drink water with toxic algae or lick their fur. Take your pet to the vet if they show any signs of lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, convulsions, difficulty breathing or general weakness, the advisory says.
People or pets exposed to toxic algae can become ill in minutes to hours after exposure. Rinse off anyone exposed immediately and seek medical help if symptoms appear. Keep your pets from licking their fur.
This story was originally published June 27, 2025 at 10:00 AM.
