California note · Outdoors
No HAB map marker does not mean the water is safe
California's HAB map shows reports rather than complete real-time monitoring, and it does not display drinking-water advisories.
Stay out if the water has odd color, scum, mats, or an unusual smell. Do the same if you see dead fish or other animals nearby. Keep pets and livestock away. You cannot tell by sight if a bloom is toxic. Follow posted closures and local health, park, or water-agency notices. Do this even when the state map looks clear.
California’s HAB Reports Map shows reports from the public and partner agencies. It also uses reports from monitoring programs that take part. The map is updated daily, but it is not real time or a full statewide watch. A dot fades after 30 days with no update. No dot does not mean the water is safe. A report may cover a small shore area or a whole body of water. The map does not show drinking-water notices.
Do not let pets drink the water, eat mats, or lick wet fur. After a possible exposure, move away and rinse with clean water. For symptoms, contact a medical professional, a veterinarian, or Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222. Report a suspected bloom through the state portal. Ask the waterbody manager about current conditions at the site.
Where to see it
California Harmful Algal Blooms portal and HAB Reports Map.
Official sources
Official source trail
Reviewed July 14, 2026
California Porch explains the path. The official source is still the place to confirm the current rule, fee, form, map, deadline, or office decision.
Use the official page before you spend money, file paperwork, rely on a deadline, or change a property.
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