Toxic Algae Shuts Down Recreation at Summit Lake

OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — Summit Lake is usually buzzing this time of year, but a dangerous bloom of toxic algae has forced everyone out of the water.

KING-TV reports the Thurston County Public Health Department advises no swimming for people or pets.

Summit Lake, just west of Olympia, Washington, is also a water source for many homeowners.

Health officials say it's not safe to drink from the faucet, shower, do laundry, or cook with tap water, even if using a filtration system. Boiling won't help either.

It's unclear how long this will last.

For now, the public boat launch is chained shut, and piers at the lake are empty. Many homeowners are using bottled water while waiting for the next test results.

The next samples are scheduled for Tuesday, and they won't have results until Friday.