# Suffolk lakes warn of toxic algae blooms

> Suffolk County lakes issue health warnings after toxic algae blooms.
- Title: Suffolk lakes warn of toxic algae blooms · ABC7 New York
- Summary: Suffolk County lakes issue health warnings after toxic algae blooms. Suffolk County health officials warn residents to avoid Lake Ronkonkoma and Wickapogue…
- Keywords: suffolk county, lake ronkonkoma, wickapogue pond, cyanobacteria, toxic algae, health warnings, news, local, Suffolk, lakes, warn, toxic
- Source: ABC7 New York — https://abc7ny.com/post/suffolk-county-cyanobacteria-algae-blooms-prompt-warnings-lake-ronkonkoma-wickapogue-pond/19859185
- Published: 2026-09-23T03:23:03+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: suffolk county, lake ronkonkoma, wickapogue pond, cyanobacteria, toxic algae, health warnings, news, local
## Health warnings issued
Suffolk County health officials warn residents not to use water at Lake Ronkonkoma and Wickapogue Pond due to cyanobacteria blooms that produce toxins.
## Algae blooms pose health risks
Christopher Gobler, Ph.D., a Stony Brook University professor, states cyanobacteria can rapidly multiply under certain conditions and pose threats to pets and humans.
## Algae blooms cause visible changes
The blue-green algae have a paint-like appearance in water and can rapidly multiply when temperature and nutrients align.
## Residents express disappointment
Howard Mazer of Nesconset says the blooms are disappointing because the lakes' beauty and recreational potential are compromised.
## Public compliance with warnings
Residents avoid entering water despite signs warning against swimming, though they continue visiting the area for walking.
## Health department advice
The health department advises rinsing with clean water after contact with blue-green algae and seeking medical attention for adverse symptoms.
## Key takeaway

Suffolk County health officials warn residents to avoid Lake Ronkonkoma and Wickapogue Pond due to harmful cyanobacteria blooms that produce toxins.