Experts Discuss Long-Term Effects of Hurricane Yan on Florida Ponds and Lakes

(WSVN) – It has been almost five months since Hurricane Yan hit the Sunny State. Forever change lives, entire communities and environments.

The transition from fresh water to salt water occurred during the 8 to 14 foot storm surge of Hurricane Yang that swept across the island.

This rapid change in water conditions not only killed exotic fish species and non-native vegetation, but also changed the aquatic environment.

This environmental change is currently being studied by the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation and Florida Gulf Coast University School of Water Resources.

Aquatic school professor Dr. Serge Thomas said he hoped the wave would wash away those ponds, but that doesn’t seem to be the case.

Because of the balance of local pounds and lakes thrown into place, algae blooms need to be monitored, according to Dr. Thomas.

Especially during the dry season when the nutrients in the water will be more concentrated.

It is not known how long the lakes will remain salty before returning to fresh water, but experts warn that even more algal blooms could begin once that happens.

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