Summer fun in California has hit a roadblock as the ongoing toxic blue-green algae outbreak forces local authorities to restrict swimming at several East Bay parks, with some beaches being completely shut down, the Mercury News reported. But the impact of these toxic algae blooms extends far beyond the inconvenience to swimmers, posing a serious threat to humans and marine life alike.

The East Bay Regional Parks District has issued advisories at numerous lakes, including Del Valle Regional Park in Livermore and Lake Chabot in Castro Valley, due to dangerous levels of the toxic algae, according to KTVU. Even activities such as boating and fishing have been severely limited, as contact with these harmful algae can lead to symptoms like headaches, skin irritation, and even vomiting and diarrhea.

The crisis, however, doesn't stop with human health risks. Over the past weeks, hundreds of sea lions and dolphins have been found washed ashore, dead or exhibiting abnormal behaviors in Southern California due to the escalating toxic algal bloom, MSN News highlighted. Described as "one of the largest in memory," the wave of dead or sick animals has left experts and marine rescue organizations both physically tired and emotionally drained.

The cause of these harmful algal blooms is attributed to the presence of Pseudo-nitzschia, a type of algae that produces a neurotoxin known as domoic acid, which, once ingested by birds and fish, spreads through the food chain, affecting larger marine animals and potentially even humans who consume contaminated seafood.

While it is not uncommon for algae blooms of this kind to occur occasionally in Southern California, experts have noted a significant increase in their frequency and severity in recent decades, with some suggesting that climate change may be playing a role. The devastating impact of these toxic algae blooms extends far beyond the inconvenience to swimmers, it also serves as a stark warning of the potential damage that our changing climate could bring to marine ecosystems and human lives.

As for those affected by the swimming restrictions this summer, it's crucial to heed the warnings of local authorities and stay away from bodies of water that have been designated as unsafe due to the presence of toxic algae. Park officials are urging people to be cautious and ensure that pets are also kept away from potentially contaminated water.