Last Thursday Tweed Shire Council issued an amber alert for blue-green algae in the Tweed River at Uki, with Clarrie Hall Dam remaining on a green alert. This morning they say the alerts are still active.
The treated drinking water at Uki remains safe to consume as Council’s water treatment processes are designed to remove any potential toxin from blue-green algae. Treatment also removes any taste and odour compounds from the water.
No alerts are current for the main Bray Park Weir or Tyalgum supplies.
Manager Water and Wastewater Operations Brie Jowett says the latest amber alert could be short-lived as the catchment had significant rain on Wednesday so the river may be flushed with fresh supplies.
Council will continue routine testing at its water extraction points while the algal bloom season continues.
Any blue-green algae alert should be treated as potentially toxic to both humans and animals and affected water should not be consumed without being treated.
Blue-green algae occur naturally and can reproduce quickly in favourable conditions.
Anyone who thinks they may have been in contact with blue-green algal water is advised to seek medical advice if symptoms appear.
For the latest, visit Council’s website at www.tweed.nsw.gov.au/waterandwastewater
For more information on blue-green algae, see www.waternsw.com.au/water-quality/algae