stench

"The stench of decomposing bodies has left the volunteers traumatised," he said.

One bus passenger, Scott, 29, said he had stopped taking his children inside the bus station because of the "horrible" stench.

In comparison to sea lions dying, the temporary stench is a small price to pay for the latest bloom, which dazzled beachgoers and nighttime surfers with its electric glow.

"It turns my stomach. The stench stays in your house for days."

Residents living near the river say they have been suffering unexplained illnesses, including gastrointestinal issues and chronic breathing problems, because of the stench of hydrogen sulfide.