August 23rd, 2024 by WCBC Radio

A harmful algae bloom has been detected in the Potomac River near Cumberland and in the area near Riley’s Lock in Williamsport.  The Maryland Department of the Environment has issued a health alert and is warning pet owners to keep their animals out of the water. 

The algae mats can be ingested by animals, leading to severe illness or even death within hours or days. They can appear as foam, scum on the water surface and can change water color to blue, green, brown, yellow, orange, or red. The MDE plans to continue to monitor the situation.