SAN PEDRO, Calif. — Harmful algal blooms, or HAB, are a naturally occurring phenomenon.

However, the latest one to hit SoCal over the summer was the largest HAB on-record, and it spanned several months. 

The bloom produces the neurotoxin domoic acid.

It’s believed this event is an indicator of future events, as rising ocean temperatures and ocean acidification are likely aiding in their frequency and intensity caused by climate change.