Harmful algal blooms lead to closure of several beaches in Putnam County

According to county officials, five beaches in Putnam County are currently closed due to algae blooms.

The beaches affected include:

• Barger Pond Beach in Putnam Valley, which was closed on Saturday, July 6;
• Carraras Beach in Putnam Valley, which was closed on Friday, July 5;
• Jackson Beach in Patterson, which was closed on Tuesday, July 2;
• Singers Beach in Putnam Valley, which was closed on Saturday, July 6;
• Warren Beach in Patterson, which was closed on Tuesday, July 2.

According to county authorities, the flowers can appear blue-green, plain green, yellow, brown or red, and foam can form on the water surface or on the shore.

They often look unnatural, as if someone had spilled a can of paint into the water, officials added.

The algal blooms can cause health consequences if they come into contact with skin or are ingested or inhaled. They can also pose a major threat to drinking water supplies, officials said.

Anyone who notices what they believe to be a harmful algal bloom can report it to the beach operator or lifeguard or call the Putnam County Health Department at 845-808-1390.

This is a developing story. Check back with Daily Voice for updates.

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