Severe algal bloom that started in Santa Barbara threatens marine wildlife and poses risks to beachgoers

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. — A harmful algal bloom has sickened and killed hundreds of California sea lions and dolphins along the Southern California Coast in recent weeks.

The bloom began in early June close to Santa Barbara. It is the most severe bloom in recent history.

Scientists believe that this bloom has produced domoic acid, a neurotoxin that causes seizures, brain damage, and death in marine mammals. However, they have not detected domoic acid in any recent samples they have collected.

Official test results will be available as early as next week.

Experts say that they are at capacity in trying to rescue these marine mammals, and that they are trying to find creative solutions to create more room to triage the animals that are stranded.

They have been administering anticonvulsant medications to control seizure activity and have been keeping these animals hydrated, as well as flushing out toxins from their body.

Dr. Lauren Palmer says the longer the bloom continues the harder it becomes to save these animals.

Experts are urging the public to stay safe over the busy holiday weekend and to maintain a safe distance from any large marine mammals. They say many of these sick animals in the water have shown more aggression towards humans.

People with a fishing license need to be careful as shellfish that is harvested can be deadly to consume.

One seafood harvester in Santa Barbara has faced a temporary closure until it is safe to resume business.

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