Suffolk: Avoid Agawam Lake in Hamptons because of algae bloom

Suffolk County health officials are urging Southampton Town residents to avoid the water in Agawam Lake because of a blue-green algae bloom.

Stony Brook University officials confirmed the presence of a bloom of cyanobacteria, or blue-green algae, in a recent sampling of the lake in Southampton Village, Suffolk health officials said Wednesday.

The algae are naturally present in lakes and streams in low numbers, but can form blooms that produce floating scums or give the water a paint-like appearance.

Residents should not use, swim or wade in the lake water and should keep pets and children away from the area, officials said.

If contact does occur, residents should rinse off with clean water immediately. They should seek medical attention if they experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, breathing difficulties, allergic reactions or irritation of the skin, eye or throat, health officials said.

By Rachelle Blidner

rachelle.blidner@newsday.com@rachelleblidner

Rachelle Blidner covers Suffolk County government, politics and breaking news.