SARATOGA SPRINGS — A disturbing sight — and smell — is greeting visitors along the shores of Utah Lake and the Jordan River this week, as hundreds of dead fish have washed ashore, likely victims of a seasonal algal bloom.

Heat and algae: A deadly combo

Officials from the Division of Water Quality said the recent spike in temperatures has triggered a heavy algal bloom in the area. These blooms deplete oxygen levels in the water, suffocating fish and creating hazardous conditions for humans and pets.

“We do know we’ve had heavy algal blooms in the area,” said John Mackey, Director of the Division of Water Quality, in an interview with KSL NewsRadio.

Mackey confirmed that water samples are being tested to determine the severity and exact cause of the die-off.

Stay out of the water

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