Nevada’s Lake Pyramid experiences algae bloom every 7 to 10 years, so significant that its color changes from dark blue to vibrant turquoise. This phenomenon is known as “whiting”.
Lake Pyramid, located in a remote desert area of the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribes’ Reservation, about 40 miles northeast of Reno, is famous for the whiting events that occur there every decade. Over a few weeks, the water turns light blue, turquoise, and, in rare cases, even white.
Spontaneous precipitation of calcium carbonate is well documented, but not very well understood. All scientists know is that contributing factors include high water temperatures, algae bloom, and increased calcium concentrations. Interestingly, whiting events are not dangerous to aquatic life. However the same cannot be said for land life, including humans.
“Pyramid Lake is currently experiencing a temporary toxic algae bloom. Water samples reported from July 22, 2020, show cyanotoxin levels that may cause harm,” Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe tweeted, adding that if accidentally exposed to the bright turquoise water, it could cause symptoms like skin rashes, eye irritation, diarrhea, and vomiting. Thankfully, Lake Pyramid has been shut to outside visitors since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Animals also can suffer from conclusions or even die if exposed to the toxic algae in the water, experts say, and adding those who have urged daredevils crazy enough to approach Pyramid lake during the whiting not to take their pets with them.
The image taken by satellite shows that the whiting started in a small corner of the lake and gradually expanded, then turning the water turquoise.
The image of unusually-colored water has gone viral on social media, with people now comparing Pyramid Lake with tropical locations like the Maldives. Even the lake is bizarrely beautiful, remember that the turquoise water is highly toxic.
Source: Oddity Central