If youre looking for a secluded state park with stunning natural beauty, Honeymoon Island State Park is where to go. A family-friendly destination favorite in Florida, youll find plenty of fun water activities like kayaking, paddle boarding, and surfing. Nature lovers will appreciate the nature trails and gorgeous landscapes, and the beach is pristine, with soft white powdered sand and idyllic crystal blue waters. Sargassum in Florida: Why is There So Much Seaweed at the Beach in 2023 You can often find sand dollar shells, lightning whelk shells, and jingle shells that have washed up ashore. The brown seaweed, which can carry flesh-eating bacteria and make you sick, is known for its smell. Perfect for an itinerary filled with sunbathing, nature watching, and shell collecting, Honeymoon Island offers 4 miles of untouched paradise. Every year for the past five years has set a new record for the biggest blob ever. Well send you our newsletter with travel destinations, Why Come Here: The abundance of golf courses, the luxurious but still tranquil vibe, and activities for the whole family. Cedric Guigand, a senior research associate in the Department of Ocean Sciences, will lead a team of scientists up to 30 miles off the coast of Miami into the Gulf Stream to deploy 24 drifters equipped with GPS trackers into thick patches of sargassum, obtaining figures that will help validate the experiments conducted in ASIST. If you visit at the right time of year, you might spot sea turtle nesting or dolphins splashing about in the water, as the Gulf of Mexico is littered with unique wildlife. Your feedback is important to us. [x-cloak]{display:none!important}. Here's the latest on the 5,000-mile seaweed belt lurking for Florida beaches There's a pesky problem in a wide stretch of the Atlantic Ocean that's likely to wash up on some beaches later this . the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: by Robert C. Jones Jr., University of Miami. Red tide, a toxic algae bloom that occurs naturally in the Gulf of Mexico, is worsened by the presence of nutrients such as nitrogen in the water. A massive swath of brown algae angles toward Southwest Florida beaches All rights reserved. The 5,000-mile mass of seaweed, part of whats called the Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt, which stretches from west Africa to the Gulf of Mexico, started washing up on Florida shores in early April. Editors have highlighted Scientists have not found any of the flesh-eating bacteria in the sargassum samples they tested, but they warn that it could still be present in the water. Heavier-than-usual rainfall flushes more runoff from farms and cities into the ocean and pulls more Saharan dust out of the atmosphere and into the sea. All that stringy stuff that washed up on Brevard County beaches this past week is just the beginning of what scientists predict will grow into the largest-ever bloom of Sargassum seaweed ever recorded, according to News 6s partners at Florida Today. Get Plus, heavy storms can stir up the nutrient-rich muck at the bottom of the sea. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Sargassum is unlike typical seaweeds that are usually anchored to the bottom of the ocean by root-like "holdfasts." Why Come Here: Famous year-round for its sun-kissed beaches, lively nightlife, and luxury hotels. Outdoor activities include swimming, kayaking, paddling boarding, and biking along the trails while indulging in fresh Gulf seafood at a local restaurant is a must. P anama City Beach in Florida is now the deadliest beach in America after three more tourists died swimming in the Gulf of Mexico over the weekend. Technically, Sargassum seaweed belts are not new phenomena. At high concentrations, Florida Atlantic University Research Professor Brian Lapointe said that gas can be bad for your health. Sat 3 Jun 2023 08.00 EDT Last modified on Sat 3 Jun 2023 14.53 EDT. Fort Lauderdale Beach, Florida A1A, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA +1 800-227-8669. Clumps of 5,000-mile seaweed blob bring flesh-eating bacteria to Florida Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study or research, no There is good news, though. Smelly Sargassum seaweed may soon wash ashore at a Gulf beach near you Dead fish have washed up. Consistently ranking as one of the top white sand beaches in Florida (and the United States), Siesta Beach is known for its fine white quartz sand, described as the most pristine and finest in the world. Here's all you need to know about the seaweed washing up on Florida beaches. Emerald green waters, side streets paved with crushed oyster shells, and Hemingway-style wooden homes are what make the artsy Grayton Beach area a local favorite. Other than that, the sand and surf are all clear. The information you enter will appear in your e-mail message and is not retained by Phys.org in any form. Recent national media coverage of . June is forecast to be the likely peak of the 2023 season, but impacts are expected to continue into July. Meanwhile, Nathan Putman and Taylor Beyea, scientists at LGLEcological Research Associates, which is participating in the study, are studying the tensile strength and stretching properties of sargassum seaweed, hoping to learn more about the forces that break it apart. A true Southern jewel, Amelia Island is 13 miles of lush landscape, untouched beach, and laid-back vibes. Since 2011, a combination of human activity and climate change has created a string of unusually large seaweed blobs. After a pandemic boom, Florida lawmakers seek to regulate ghost kitchens and food trailers. Copyright 2023 CNN Newsource. One of the most popular beaches on Florida's Gulf, Clearwater Beach has an impressive set of accolades. Published on Friday, May 5, 2023 But in 2011, they started to increase in prevalence and density again, resulting in an 8,850-kilometer-long bloom extending from West Africa to the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico. You can also take a stroll along the Pensacola Beach Pier, catch a Blue Angels show at National Naval Aviation Museum, or explore Floridas history at Fort Pickens. It is unfortunate that it had to be canceled but it is the best decision in the interest of public health.. Want to avoid the crowds but enjoy a lively night out? What could go wrong, right? One year after first testing positive for COVID-19, Mount Dora resident Tanya Balyeat still has weakened lungs and the short-term memory loss phenomenon known as brain fog., Health: The U.S. has a high rate of preterm births, and abortion bans could make that worse, Business: Justice Department opens probe into Silicon Valley Bank after its sudden collapse, Politics: Biden wants to boost background checks on gun buyers. Seaweed is piling up on Floridas coasts and it could be carrying dangerous bacteria. Florida Seaweed Problem 2023: Everything You Need to Know Before You Video: Scientists warn seaweed piling up on Florida beaches could carry dangerous bacteria Seaweed is piling up on Floridas coasts and it could be carrying dangerous bacteria. As a huge blob of sargassum swirls in the ocean, clusters of seaweed are arriving at South Florida beaches from Miami to Fort Lauderdale. Siesta Beach is in Siesta Key an eight-mile barrier island an hour out of Tampa that runs along Floridas Gulf Coast and is impressive, to say the least. Address: 1000 S Casey Key Rd, Nokomis, FL 34275. and Terms of Use. News 6 delivers local, state, national and international headlines. "This represents the world's largest macroalgal bloom," the researchers reported. SALON is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office as a trademark of Salon.com, LLC. Book your trip today and experience a one-of-a-kind beach vacation. If you are looking for a family-friendly Caribbean beach without seaweed, Morne Rouge is an excellent choice. PANAMA CITY BEACH, Florida Councilman Paul Casto says "everything is on the table at this point" when it comes to additional measures to help prevent future drownings. Copyright 2023 Associated Press. This site uses cookies to assist with navigation, analyse your use of our services, collect data for ads personalisation and provide content from third parties. At Gray, our journalists report, write, edit and produce the news content that informs the communities we serve. We keep our content available to everyone. Laid-back with predominantly warm, calm waters, Sanibel is a favorite for families traveling with children. "dateModified": "2023-04-08", Why Come Here: An underrated gem on the Gulf Islands National Seashore with affordable hotels. "It rots under the Florida sunshine quickly," said Hu. This article has been reviewed according to ScienceX's The U.S. has a high rate of preterm births, and abortion bans could make that worse, Justice Department opens probe into Silicon Valley Bank after its sudden collapse, Biden wants to boost background checks on gun buyers. Neither your address nor the recipient's address will be used for any other purpose. Seminole Countys Extreme Weather Plan activated due to heat advisory. "The Miami-Dade parks department has been well aware of this situation not just from this year but from past years," Hu said, "so they are well prepared to deal with it.". The seaweed, known scientifically as Sargassum, is expected to become heavier and more frequent in coming years, thanks in part to climate change, fertilizer runoff and dust from Africa, the Herald reported. Bahia Honda State Park, Overseas Highway, Big Pine Key, FL, USA +1 305-872-2353. Stinky blobs of seaweed are already washing ashore in parts of Florida. Associated Press articles: Copyright 2016 The Associated Press. (Andre Seale/VW PICS/Universal Images Group via Getty Images), ------------------------------------------, The ocean's temperature was hotter than ever in 2022, scientists say, Why West Coast weather will be chaotic in the future, according to a climate scientist, 90% of humans will suffer extreme heat, drought due to climate change: report. Click here to sign in with In the past week, numerous news outlets warned of a massive "seaweed blob" destined to take over Florida's east coast. A bill that would use cameras to make sure drivers pump the brakes in school zones is speeding through committee, and a new study shows it could make an immediate impact., WUFT News: Volunteers on a Gainesville farm find joy in the harvest. Its the perfect place to get away from it all in the Panhandle, as this South Walton beauty features soft white sands where you can throw out a towel and bask in the sunshine. It's typical for these Sargassum belts to stretch for miles across the ocean's surface, and they can serve as a floating home for animals such as sea turtles, marine birds, shrimps and crabs. "name": "TripsToDiscover", If youre up for a little adventure, watch dolphins frolicking in the waters and gopher tortoises burrowing in the sand or embark on a kayaking excursion through the mangroves and bay. "@type": "Organization", New study shows Florida drivers zoom through school zones. A local gem, St. George Island State Park is a quiet and unspoiled barrier island situated in Northwest Florida. Seaweed, sargassum bloom could reach South Florida beaches in March This year's sargassum bloom is shaping up to be one of the biggest ever recorded. 10 Best Caribbean Beaches You Should Visit (Without - TheTravel Health experts advise people never to eat seaweed because it also may contain large amounts of heavy metals such as arsenic and cadmium. The Point, June 27, 2023: Susan Lorincz to face manslaughter, not murder, charges, The Point, June 26, 2023: Federal judge blocks Floridas law targeting drag shows, The Point, June 23, 2023: What Floridas abortion law looks like a year after Roe overturning, The Point, June 22, 2023: Judge blocks Floridas ban on Medicaid coverage for gender-affirming care, Man sentenced to 10 years in prison for Millhopper Road pedestrian crash, Judge refuses to allow union dues to be deducted from Florida public employees paychecks, How fish are helping to control the mosquito population in Alachua County, DeSantis, appointees to Disney World governing board ask that Disney lawsuit be dismissed, Gainesville moving forward with gun violence prevention task force. Why Come Here: Known as one of the best spots for snorkeling and beachcombing in Florida. This article has been reviewed according to ScienceX's But they are just one component of the project. Kirsten Poletis comments Oct 08, 2019, 9:25 AM Updated Zazen | Dreamstime.com Just seen months ago, Florida emerged from the ragged end of a 14-month long toxic algae bloom which devastated beaches, leaving thousands of dead fish and mountains of seaweed on Florida beaches. According to a study conducted for the Florida Keys and Monroe County, a significant sargassum event could cost the heavy tourism-reliant region at least $20 million in economic losses and hundreds of local jobs. Once popular as a spring break destination, Fort Lauderdale has since evolved into a family-friendly destination. Robyn Wishna / Beached sargassum surrounds a pair of sunbathers in Boca Raton on March 31, 2023. When the COVID-19 pandemic shuttered restaurants, some entrepreneurs turned to this business model to provide takeout or delivery-only options by preparing meals in shared spaces or portable structures., WMFE-Orlando: Exploring Long COVID Part 2: Whats it like to have it? Situated less than an hour from big cities like Boca Raton and Fort Lauderdale, it is known equally for its beautiful beaches and nightlife. News outlets suggested a massive seaweed blob was headed for Florida's beaches. The information you enter will appear in your e-mail message and is not retained by Phys.org in any form. Before the 2011 mega-bloom, that would have been impossible. Panama City Beach is the deadliest beach in America in 2023 - MSN What to know about the sargassum seaweed blob hitting Florida : NPR 2023 NYP Holdings, Inc. All Rights Reserved, 'Strange lights' above Northern California were likely space junk, Volunteer shovel brigade clears snowy path to help migrating Yellowstone bison, Oldest sea reptile remains from 2 million years ago found on Arctic island, Experts from the University of South Florida, According to the Florida Health Department. Considered the epicenter of Floridas Gulf Coast, the family-friendly Pensacola Beach consistently ranks as one of the best beaches in Floridas Panhandle. For general inquiries, please use our contact form. And that's were our research comes in. According to the Florida Health Department, the seaweed is not harmful to humans, but it can still lead to impacts. Police said three separate "fatal water. "datePublished": "2016-08-22", Thanks for contacting us. Massive seaweed blob growing at record pace will hit Florida beaches Our research is editorially independent but we Address: Gulf Dr S, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217. Neither your address nor the recipient's address will be used for any other purpose. "Such recurrent blooms may become the new normal.". Look out for our newsletters in your inbox soon. It's a vital habitat that provides food and refuge for fish, birds, crabs, and many other marine organisms," she said. Here's what's really happening By Nicole Karlis Senior Writer Published March 25, 2023 2:00PM (EDT) Rafts of. Why You Need To Go: A groundswell is chopping up the surf, but other than that, clarity in the water and on the beach is calm and clear. Over the last few centuries, scientists reported that these "mats" have been "limited" and "discontinuous." What could go wrong, right? Seaweed mass expands, reaches record tonnage. Messy Florida beaches A beachside festival has been canceled, even though it wasnt scheduled for another month. "A seaweed blob twice the width of the US is heading toward Florida," CNN forewarned. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission warns people to not swim in or around red tide waters over the possibility of skin irritation, rashes and burning and sore eyes. Residents are complaining about burning eyes and breathing problems. You can unsubscribe at any time and we'll never share your details to third parties. Popular in the Central Florida area and made famous by pro-surfer Kelly Slater, youll find surfing is a favored activity at Cocoa Beach. However, we do not guarantee individual replies due to the high volume of messages. While relaxation is at the top of most itineraries, you can also go swimming in its emerald waters, fish from the coasts longest pier, or take a cruise along the scenic bike paths. June 1: Panama City Beach May 22: Latest photos and reports from travelers and locals in Florida Here are a few latest photos and updates from different areas around Florida. White powdery sand, turquoise waters, and charming beach towns the Sunshine State has the winning combination for a perfect year-round destination. A great place for families to unwind and relax for a day, popular activities include fishing, kayaking, and snorkeling. Seaweed still covers many Brevard beaches Its harvest day. Nicknamed Floridas Playground, Navarre Beach is a compact community with a rich history. Away from the masses, Caladesi Island State Park boasts unreal views of pristine beach lining Floridas Gulf Coast. Nature lovers will rejoice at the 3-mile nature trail full of osprey, bald eagle, and great horned owls. What is the seaweed season in Florida? Why Come Here: Its one of the few remaining large undeveloped barrier islands on Floridas Gulf Coast. Sargassum Seaweed In Florida: 2023' Latest Updates And Photo Reports Henderson Beach State Park, Emerald Coast Parkway, Destin, FL, USA +1 850-837-7550. Join our group " Sargassum Seaweed Updates Florida " and ask about any particular area. Compared to a decade ago, Xie called the phenomenon "unusual" because "such a belt did not exist" back then. Why Come Here: Its sugar-white sand beaches and outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, and birdwatching. While infections are rare, it can be severe. Samantha started at WKMG-TV in September 2020. This document is subject to copyright. "In 2010, there were stronger-than usual winds and currents; it is speculated that these could bring Sargassum to the Tropical Atlantic, where all conditions (light, nutrients, temperature) are favorable for growth in subsequent years," Xie said. The bacteria can enter through minor wounds like cuts, scrapes or scratches. 13 million tons of seaweed are bobbing off the coast as this year's Great Atlantic Sargassum Bloom sets new records. Grayton Beach State Park, Main Park Road, Santa Rosa Beach, FL, USA +1 850-267-8300. It almost became rare to see a Florida beach without seaweed for a while. On some beaches in Florida, the "blobs" of crunchy, dry, brown stinky seaweed range. The annual BeachFest in Indian Rocks Beach, Florida, sponsored by a homeowners association, was canceled after it determined, with help from the city and the Pinellas County Health Department, that red tide likely would continue through the middle of next month when the festival was scheduled. Exploring how ocean dynamics affect transport of sargassum seaweed Voted the world's best beach by Tripadvisor, Grace Bay Beach boasts crystal-clear waters, calm waves, and soft sands that leave many in awe. The seaweed comes in waves, depending on currents and wind direction. Watch: Researchers in Florida receive grant to study sargassum and its potential uses. Reports from Key West, Fort Lauderdale and other South Florida communities show clumps of brown seaweed piled up along what are usually white, sandy beaches. Top 10 Water Park Resorts in Phoenix & Scottsdale, 11 Best Extended Stay Hotels in Las Vegas, 10 Best Hotels in Vero Beach, FL Near the Ocean, 16 Best Small Beach Towns in the U.S. for Summer, The Top 10 Cities to Visit in Florida, According to Data, 15 Most Romantic Hotels in Miami, Florida, Top 15 Spring Break Hotels in Florida for Families, 12 Best Four Seasons Resorts Around the World, Top 9 Extended Stay Hotels in Pensacola, Florida, 9 Water Parks in the Wisconsin Dells Your Kids Will Love, 10 Best Hotels Near Petco Park in San Diego, CA, 11 Best Hotels Near Truist Park in Atlanta, Georgia. Just as the name suggests, Honeymoon Island is a secluded state park perfect for those seeking privacy and tranquility. Soak in the stunning natural beauty of Florida without tourist crowds at Fort De Soto Park, where shelling, swimming, and strolling the white powdered sandy beaches are a top priority. trending stories every day. For general inquiries, please use our contact form. Water activities are king at this beach you can snorkel, scuba dive, kayak, paddleboard, canoe, fish, or windsurf. "It's really difficult to pinpoint which is the dominant factor.". "It will become a new normal," Hu said. Sargassum seaweed on Florida beaches: Latest reports - Getaways to the editorial process But bill critics say lawmakers have the wrong approach., WLRN-Miami: After a pandemic boom, Florida lawmakers seek to regulate ghost kitchens and food trailers. South Florida beaches could be covered in record seaweed this summer The "blob," as many in the media are calling it, has been making news for weeks. There is even a type of frogfish known as "sargassum fish" who live solely in this habitat. This station is part of Cox Media Group Television. Olascoaga's study comes after satellite images recently revealed massive patches of sargassum, known as the Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt, headed this way.
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