Red tide is currently present at low levels in Southwest Florida, with no bloom concentrations detected over the past week.
Satellite images show two patches of elevated chlorophyll offshore, possibly containing red tide, but samples are needed for confirmation. These patches are moving daily due to winds and currents. Scientists are actively monitoring the situation and conducting sampling to assess the presence of red tide in these patches.
READ: NHC: Two Tropical Disturbances Being Monitored In The Atlantic And Caribbean
Key takeaways:
- Low concentrations: Red tide organism, Karenia brevis, was found at background to very low concentrations in some samples from Southwest Florida.
- Offshore patches: Satellite imagery shows potential red tide patches offshore, but this needs to be confirmed by sampling.
- No bloom conditions: No bloom concentrations of red tide were observed.
- No fish kills or respiratory irritation: No reports of fish kills or respiratory irritation related to red tide were received.
- Monitoring continues: FWC and partners are actively monitoring the situation with ongoing sampling and forecasts.
Additional Information:
- Red tide was present in the area before the recent hurricanes Helene and Milton.
- Forecasts predict southwestern movement of surface waters and southeastern transport of subsurface waters in most areas over the next few days.
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