PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) - Rhode Island health and environmental officials have issued health advisories for water bodies in Providence because of algae blooms.
The state departments of health and the environmental management said the advisories are in effect for the ponds at Roger Williams Park and Mashapaug Pond because of blue-green algae blooms.
Officials urged residents to avoid recreational activities, including swimming, boating and fishing, at the ponds in both locations. People should not allow their pets to go into or drink from the water either.
Contact with algae blooms can cause rashes and nose, eye and throat irritations. Ingesting the water can lead to diarrhea, vomiting and nausea.
The blooms are bright green and can float on the water's surface or form under water.