Portrush beaches red-flagged after toxic algae appearance

Beaches in Portrush have been closed after the presence of blue-green algae was located in the last 24 hours.

After consultation with the RNLI, the decision has been made to put in place Red Flag Status at East Strand and West Bay beaches.

The council has been monitoring the beaches, harbours and marinas in the local area, with this warning coming a day after the blue-green algae was found at Magilligan Point beach.

People are advised against swimming or water-based activities and recommend keeping pets away from the tide line.

Officers are in communication with Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, who will be taking water samples for analysis.

If after analysis, levels are shown to be above World Health Organisation guidelines, a further update will be issued.

For further information or if you suspect you have seen this algae, please contact Northern Ireland Environment Agency using their reporting app 'Bloomin' Algae' for suspected sightings of blue-green algae.