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The marine algal bloom, phytoplankton, is affecting some beaches in North Wales including Rhyl and Prestatyn.

The blooms, which are seen as foam along the coastline, are currently forming in Liverpool Bay. They are caused by increased marine algal growth, forming dense populations of algae at different places and times. The most usual times these can occur are in the spring and early summer.

These blooms are natural occurrences, and this year, the stronger wind direction from the west and northwest in the last few days has caused the foam to arrive on Denbighshire beaches.

The species Phaeocystiscan bring ashore gelatinous material and in rougher weather and windy conditions can cause foam. The blooms are not toxic, but cause aesthetic problems. An unpleasant smell, like cabbage, occurs when the algae are dying.

Marine, Biological and Chemical Consultants in Bangor and Anglesey monitor and identify these events, via samples taken by local authority officers of North Wales, including officers of Denbighshire County Council.

For further information on the algal blooms go to http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/news/1789897

Denbighshire County Council: Bathing Waters website:
http://www.denbighshire.gov.uk/cy-gb/dnap-76ael9?opendocument&lang=cy-gb
http://www.denbighshire.gov.uk/en-gb/DNAP-76AEL9