The National Ocean Service NOAA provides provides a forecast of the Microcystis harmful algal blooms (HABs) in Lake Erie once or twice weekly during the warmer months of the year. HAB forecasts are based on understanding the causes of HABs and how they respond to changing weather and ocean conditions. The other critical component of a HAB forecast is the ability to routinely and remotely detect HABs, their toxins, and environmental conditions that foster blooms and enhance their toxicity.