Mysterious lake appears in middle of Tunisian desert

A mysterious lake has appeared in middle of the Tunisian desert and has instantly become a tourist attraction.

The stretch of water, dubbed the Lac de Gafsa, appeared like a mirage; one minute there was nothing but scorching sand, the next a large expanse of turquoise water, The Guardian reported.

A Tunisian journalist said that in the first few days, the water was crystal clear; a turquoise blue. Now it's green and full of algae, which means it's not being replenished.

He said that this region is overflowing with large deposits of phosphate, which can leave behind radioactive residue so there is a real risk that the water is contaminated and carcinogenic. There's no security of any kind.

The journalist added that the site is certainly stunning and there are many large rocks perfect for diving, but it has become infested with green algae, meaning the water is stagnant and conducive to diseases.