Toxic algae bloom closes Pyramid Lake north of Reno

RENO — A toxic algae bloom has shut down Pyramid Lake north of Reno.

The lake has been closed to outside visitors since the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe banned visitors to the reservation surrounding the lake at the beginning of the coronavirus outbreak.

But KRNV-TV first reported Friday the lake and all surrounding beaches are now off limits to everyone, including residents, because of the algae bloom.

Tribal officials say water samples taken Wednesday show toxic levels of cyanotoxin that may cause harm to humans and pets.

The tribe says people can experience skin rashes, eye irritation, diarrhea and vomiting if exposed to the algae. Animals can suffer from convulsions or even die if they make contact with the water.