Edina Mayor Jim Huffland issued a public health warning Thursday for Lake Cornelia, marking the second such advisory this summer due to dangerous blue-green algae levels.

The public should avoid all contact with water in the north and south sections of Lake Cornelia, according to the mayor's announcement. Water samples collected in August and June contained cyanotoxin concentrations above Minnesota Pollution Control Agency standards for swimming and recreational water activities.

The blue-green algae cyanotoxins pose health risks to both people and pets who come into contact with the water, algae, scum or foam. The mayor emphasized that algae conditions can change rapidly and testing results may not reflect real-time water quality.

The Namel Creek Watershed District will continue collecting water samples at Lake Cornelia twice monthly through September. The district will release updated information on cyanotoxin and algae levels as new data becomes available.

Huffland acknowledged the situation's impact on one of the city's most scenic lakes, stating the city will continue working to address the underlying problem while prioritizing public safety.