Lake Kealia on Maui has turned an unusual purple-pink color. Experts believe that the cause of the natural phenomenon could be drought, UPI reports.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service confirmed that the pond has been in this condition for more than two weeks.
Local residents note that nothing like this has ever happened to the lake before.
What's wrong with Hawaii's pink lake: Scientists say they've found the 'culprit' https://t.co/zf0LikXmvB – News Bulletin 247
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According to experts, the color changes are caused by the activity of halobacteria found in waters with high salinity, and the salt content in the Kealia pond is due to excessive drought and forest fires.
The lake water is not considered toxic, but samples have been sent to the University of Hawaii for further testing.