Recent water tests have confirmed that Lake Alexandrina is now free of blue-green algae. Thanks to heavy winter rains, the algae have been flushed out, and the water quality has returned to safe levels.

The lake has faced significant challenges over the past four months, with toxic blue-green algae blooms making it unsafe for activities such as swimming, diving, and fishing.

Concerns were also raised concerns about pet safety and the consumption of fish caught in the lake.

The algae problem first emerged four months ago, prompting health and safety measures to prevent public access and use. The presence of these toxic blooms can cause a range of health problems, from skin irritation to more severe gastrointestinal issues if ingested.

Health experts, including SA Health Principal Water Quality Adviser Dr David Cunliffe, have now given the green light for all recreational activities to resume.

This means that swimming, diving, fishing, and other activities can recommence, and pets can safely swim in the water again. Fish caught in the lake are also deemed safe to eat.

While SA Water does not source drinking water from the lake, it has reassured residents that the water supplied from other sources in the area remains safe to drink.

SA Health will continue routine weekly testing to monitor the water quality at Lake Alexandrina. For the latest updates on water quality and the health effects of blue-green algae, visit the SA Health Water Quality Alerts page here.