You May Not Want To Swim At These 6 Massachusetts Beaches This Summer Due To A Dangerous Discovery

Several beaches in Massachusetts have tested positive for high levels of bacteria and have been closed or placed under health advisory.

Algae blooms have resulted in elevated levels of cyanobacteria in some swimming areas. Cyanobacteria is extremely irritating to the human body, and in some cases can even cause permanent injury or death.

If the blue-green algae sits on the skin, it can cause rashes, hives and even scarring blisters. Inhaling droplets of the bacteria can cause infections sinuses, swollen throats, and asthma-like symptoms.

Swallowing water contaminated with this bacteria wreaks havoc on the digestive system, and can even kill pets. Kids are at high risk for more severe symptoms, as they tend to accidentally swallow water as they swim.

The advisories below are accurate as of June 25. Further testing and cleanup effort may result in beach reopenings or additional beach closures.

Monponsett Watershed Association

Monponsett Watershed Association

Two public beaches and a boat ramp were closed on June 18 at West Monponsett Pond in Halifax due to dangerous levels of cyanobacteria, the result of high amounts of algae in the pond. The algal contamination is thought to be caused by nutrient overloading from septic systems, lawn and agricultural fertilizer runoff, and phosphorus from local bog operations. West Monponsett Pond tested at safe levels on June 29, and the pond will continue to be monitored.

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Waters at Smith Beach showed double the safe limit of bacteria when it was tested on June 20. It is one of the five beaches on the South Shore that tested positive for contamination.

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The Milton Street section of Wollaston Beach has tested positive for high levels of harmful cyanobacteria. It is one of the five beaches on the South Shore that tested positive for contamination.

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Newport Avenue Beach had the highest levels of dangerous bacteria at four times the safe limit. It is one of the five beaches on the South Shore that tested positive for contamination.

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Darcy's Beach is located directly across from Hull High School. Darcy’s Beach has tested positive for high levels of harmful cyanobacteria. It is one of the five beaches on the South Shore that tested positive for contamination.

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Indian Lake in Worcester is currently being treated with an application of alum. The alum was applied on June 27 in an attempt to combat harmful algal growth. Officials are advising all residents to stay out of the water, including boaters and anglers. Postings will be up at the beach advising visitors of the situation.

It’s important to be aware that algae levels and advisories change throughout the summer, so the info above may not reflect the most recent results as new water samples are taken. Please follow all signs and directions at local lakes and rivers, and stay up to date on water advisories in your area.