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Researchers predict red tide moving to beaches
The red tide crisis is ruining a lot of people's plans for a day at the beach in Pinellas County but thanks to researchers at the University of South Florida, there's a way to look at the forecast of red tide for the next few days.
SARASOTA, Fla. - Sarasota County officials are warning beachgoers to stay out of the water at several beaches as no-swim advisories have been put in place.
As of Friday morning, the Sarasota County Health Department has listed no swim advisories for eight beaches: Longboat Key, Bird Key Park and John Ringling Causeway Park, Turtle Beach, Nokomis Beach, Brohard Beach, Casperson Beach, Manasota Ley and the Blind Pass Beaches.
Officials stated they’ve detected significant levels of bacteria in the water at all eight locations that could make people sick. They’ve said the high bacteria levels are likely due to the line of decaying algae and dead and decaying fish due to red tide in the area.
According to FWC, both high and medium levels of red tide are still being detected up and down the Sarasota coastline.
RELATED: Maggots fill sand along Lido Beach after red tide fish kill
This week, the county announced they would begin cleaning dead fish off of their beaches after finally getting approval from the DEP to bring in machines to help with the cleanup.
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Manatee deaths worry experts battling red tide
With more than 840 manatee deaths reported in the state this year, members of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission on Wednesday expressed a need for patience after receiving an outline of efforts to combat a significant decline in water quality, particularly along the state’s East Coast. The water-quality problems have caused a significant loss of seagrass, which is a primary source of food for manatees.
Sarasota officials said that compared to 2018, this year’s red tide impacts are less severe. However, they’re still keeping an eye on it.
MORE: Skeptical fishermen worry about future of the bay -- and their livelihoods
As long as this no swim advisory is in place, officials are encouraging residents to stay out of the water and not to eat any fish or shellfish.
Officials plan to recheck bacteria levels on Friday. If they find that the levels are safe, they will lift the no swim advisory. However, they will still be cleaning dead fish off the beaches this weekend, and they encourage beachgoers to check red tide maps before heading out.
Use the following links to track red tide conditions and to read detailed updates about respiratory issues and fish kills:
- Visit St. Pete-Clearwater
- Mote Marine Lab
- Gulf Coastal Ocean Observing System
- Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission