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Latest Advisories

Board of HealthLatest Advisories

8/4/25 – 8/12/25
Statewide Air Quality Alert – Canadian Wildfire Smoke
Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection

The Town of Hamilton would like to inform residents of an active Statewide Air Quality Alert issued by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP). This alert includes our region and has been prompted by elevated levels of air pollutants. The real-time air monitoring map linked from Mass.gov now redirects to the MassDEP site, where you can view detailed data.

According to current wind patterns and test site readings, Hamilton is within the coverage zone for elevated fine particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide. These conditions may affect sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory or heart conditions.

Residents are advised to take the following precautions:

  • Limit outdoor activity
  • Keep windows closed

To monitor real-time air quality updates, please visit the MassDEP Air Quality Forecast Page.

8/3/25
Chebacco Lake Water Conditions
Chebacco Lake Watershed Association

The Chebacco Lake Watershed Association, in coordination with the Town of Hamilton, has issued a Health Watch for Chebacco Lake due to cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) based on visual inspection and field conditions.

The bloom is suspected to be caused by the species Microcystis, a type of cyanobacteria known to produce toxins that can be harmful to both humans and animals. Visitors should stay out of the water in areas where blooms are visible and keep pets away from the shoreline.

7/28/25 – 7/30/25
Heat Advisory
National Weather Service

The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory for much of Massachusetts from 11 A.M. on Monday, July 28 – 8 P.M. on Wednesday, July 30, 2025. Hamilton Cooling Stations Available:

  • Hamilton Council on Aging
    299 Bay Road | 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

  • Hamilton-Wenham Public Library
    14 Union Street | Thursday 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM | Friday 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

7/24/25
Heat Advisory
National Weather Service

The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for our area, with heat index values forecasted to reach 103 degrees. With high temperatures expected from 11 A.M. Thursday, July 24 through 8 P.M. Friday, July 25, the Hamilton Fire Department urges residents to take precautions during this excessive heat event. Hamilton Cooling Stations Available:

  • Hamilton Council on Aging
    299 Bay Road | 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

  • Hamilton-Wenham Public Library
    14 Union Street | Thursday 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM | Friday 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

7/23/25
Chebacco Lake Water Conditions
Chebacco Lake Watershed Association

The Chebacco Lake Watershed Association and residents living around the lake have reported the possible presence of Microcystis, a toxin-producing cyanobacteria, at very low levels in the lake. While not confirmed, this type of cyanobacteria can pose health risks to humans and pets. Small, low-density outbreaks were observed at:

    • Three locations along Wood Drive
    • Near the boat ramp
    • At the westerly end of the beach at Centennial Grove

Avoid contact with visible blooms and keep pets away from possible affected water. 

6/27/25
Update: Chebacco Lake Water Conditions
Chebacco Lake Watershed Association

Following the June 24 advisory regarding a possible harmful algal bloom (HAB) in Chebacco Lake by the Town of Essex, recent observations indicate that the lake currently appears clear of cyanobacteria. While this is encouraging news, conditions on freshwater bodies can change quickly depending on weather patterns, temperature, and other environmental factors. Residents along the lake are urged to remain observant of the water quality and to report signs of cyanobacteria to the Hamilton Board of Health at [email protected] and include photos and a detailed location of the possible bloom. Algae Bloom Updates are also often posted online thanks to the The Chebacco Lake & Watershed Association. More information by mass.gov on cyanobacteria is available here.

6/24/25
Advisory: Possible Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) in Chebacco Lake
Essex Board of Health

The adjacent Town of Essex has received reports of a possible harmful algal bloom (HAB), also known as cyanobacteria, in Chebacco Lake. Observations have been made both at Centennial Grove and by residents living along the lake. Although the current conditions do not meet the threshold for an official closure, the Hamilton Board of Health is sharing this advisory out of an abundance of caution, in coordination with the Essex Board of Health. Chebacco Lake, a 250-acre freshwater pond located in Hamilton and shared with the Town of Essex. More information on cyanobacteria is available here. If you observe what you believe to be cyanobacteria, please send any information to the Hamilton Board of Health, including photos and a detailed location of the possible bloom.  

6/23/25
Hot Weather Safety
National Weather Service

With high temperatures expected through Tuesday evening 6/24, the Town of Hamilton is urging residents to take proactive steps to stay safe during this anticipated heat event. The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for much of Massachusetts, including our area, with heat index values expected to reach the mid-90s to 100 degrees.

The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is emphasizing heat safety. 

Recommended Safety Tips:

  • Stay hydrated
  • Limit outdoor activity
  • Seek air-conditioned spaces 
  • Never leave children or pets in vehicles
  • Check on neighbors
  • Dress appropriately