CrystalLake1

Crystal Lake, Newton. Photo by Bryan McGonigle

Contrary to what the Standells say, health and safety officials don’t “love that dirty water,” and for the second time this summer, Crystal Lake is closed.

Mayor Marc Laredo announced on Friday that a test sample had shown high levels of E. coli bacteria.

“No one—people or pets—should have contact with the water,” Laredo’s message to the community reads.

Officials closed the beach Friday afternoon after the test samples came back. The water is tested regularly, and Laredo said new samples will be taken every weekday until the E. coli level is back within safety limits.

Ingesting E. coli is very dangerous and can cause gastrointestinal issues as well as itchiness and cold and flu symptoms. Residents are urged to see a doctor if they swam in the lake and are now sick.

Despite the increase in rain in recent weeks, Eastern Massachusetts is in the midst of a lengthy drought that has dried up waterways and caused bacteria and algae to thrive.

This is the second time in six weeks that Crystal Lake has been closed. In late June, test samples showed high levels of cyanobacterial algae, and the lake was closed for several days leading up to the July 4 weekend.

And there’s currently a cyanobacterial algae bloom in the Charles River that’s causing concern.

Laredo said his administration would alert the public as soon as Crystal Lake is reopened.

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