Red Tide (File) Red tide continues to plague Southwest Florida, with high concentrations of the harmful algae Karenia brevis detected in multiple
Red tide continues to plague Southwest Florida, with high concentrations of the harmful algae Karenia brevis detected in multiple water samples.
Over the past week, K. brevis was found in 125 samples collected from Northwest and Southwest Florida, with bloom concentrations observed in 24 samples spanning from Pasco County to Lee County.
Fish kills suspected to be related to red tide have been reported offshore of Pinellas County and along the coasts of Manatee and Sarasota counties. Respiratory irritation has also been reported in Sarasota County.
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Key takeaways from the latest red tide report:
- Southwest Florida: Bloom concentrations were observed in and offshore of Pinellas, Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, and Lee counties.
- Northwest Florida: Medium concentrations were detected offshore of Pasco County.
- East Coast: No red tide was observed.
Satellite imagery indicates patches of elevated chlorophyll, which can be indicative of red tide, along and offshore of Pinellas, Charlotte, and Lee counties.
Recommendations for the public:
- Beachgoers: Check current red tide conditions before heading to the beach.
- People with respiratory issues: Avoid areas with reported respiratory irritation.
- Anglers: Be aware of potential fish kills and follow advisories from the FWC.
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For the latest updates and forecasts on red tide, visit the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Gulf of Mexico Harmful Algal Blooms Forecast website.
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