Health department warns about blue-green algae in canal in South Miami area

Locals and visitors were being cautioned Wednesday about the presence of blue-green algae, a type of bacteria frequently occurring in freshwater, in Twin Lakes Canal, the Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County said.

A section of the canal near Southwest 68th Street in the South Miami area is being tested, the department said, but “it is important to exercise caution, even if [the] presence of toxins has not yet been confirmed.”

“Do not drink, swim, wade, use personal watercrafts, or come into contact with waters where there is a visible bloom,” the department said.

Members of the public should also keep their pets and livestock away from the area to avoid contact and steer clear of eating shellfish from waters with algae blooms.

Blue-green algae blooms can appear as scum, foam or paint in various colors on the surface of water and emit unpleasant odors, the department said. It can still be present even when it’s not visible as a bloom.

The toxins produced by the algae can be harmful to humans, pets and ecosystems, including fish and other marine life.

Those with health questions or concerns about blue-green algae can call Miami-Dade’s Florida Department of Health at 305-324-2400. Information about Florida’s water quality and harmful algae blooms can be found at Protecting Florida Together.

This story was originally published January 14, 2026 at 3:59 PM.