The largest widespread harmful algal bloom (HAB) in the Hudson River estuary in living memory appears centered near Kingston. It extends Village of Catskill and City of Hudson, south to the Town of Esopus and Town of Hyde Park, with isolated observations at other points. “While drinking and interacting with the algae water in the creek or Hudson River can be harmful to humans and animals, the City of Kingston tap water is not affected and is quite safe to drink,” wrote Noble. HABs can produce toxins that pose health risks to people, pets and wildlife via ingestion, inhalation or skin contact. Extreme precipitation events can also increase runoff of nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen into the river, fueling blooms.