Summer vibes just got a reality check at Lake Tahoe’s South Shore. Turns out, those crystal-clear waters aren’t always as pristine as your Instagram filter suggests. The U.S. Forest Service dropped a major water quality warning that every lake-loving adventurer needs to hear.

E. Coli Alert: Not the Souvenir You Want

Near Camp Richardson Resort, water tests revealed seriously elevated E. coli levels, basically nature’s way of saying “keep out”. The specific zone between Jameson Beach and the Valhalla Boathouse is now a bacterial danger zone. Before you think about taking that refreshing dip, remember: these microbes can turn your epic lake day into a nightmare of stomach cramps, diarrhea, and fever.

The good news? Officials aren’t playing around. The resort immediately inspected its sewer lines after the discovery and repairs are already underway. This isn’t just random testing, agencies routinely check Tahoe’s waters during summer to keep recreational areas safe.

What Locals and Visitors Need to Do

If you’re planning a Lake Tahoe adventure, pay attention. Officials will be testing the area daily, updating safety status and potentially implementing additional precautions. The CDC recommends avoiding swallowing water during any aquatic activities, sage advice that could save you from a seriously unpleasant vacation.

For the water-loving crowd, this means being smart. Check local advisories, watch for warning signs, and maybe opt for shoreside hangouts until the all-clear sounds. Your epic lake day isn’t worth risking your health.

Stay informed, stay safe, and maybe pack an extra bottle of hand sanitizer. Tahoe’s beauty is unmatched, but sometimes Mother Nature throws a curveball, or in this case, some unwelcome bacteria.