Two beaches in South Australia have been closed after unusual off-white foam and dead fish washed ashore, and surfers reported feeling unwell. Since the weekend surfers in Waitpinga have reported getting sore eyes, sore throats and coughing after contact with the water.
Officials suspect a microalgal bloom, likely triggered by recent hot and dry weather, has affected both marine life and humans.
Scientists are analysing water samples, but identifying the organism may take several days. The foam, a byproduct of decaying toxic organisms, has covered hundreds of metres of coastline. Authorities will reopen the beaches once conditions improve and the risks are assessed.
