Red tide continues to plague Southwest Florida, with the harmful algal bloom organism Karenia brevis detected in 23 water samples collected over the past week. Bloom concentrations, indicating a higher risk of adverse effects, were observed in four samples: one each from Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, and Lee counties.
While recent cloud cover has hampered satellite imagery used to track offshore patches of K. brevis, limited images from January 19th suggest that these patches have intensified and moved south, affecting areas off Lee, Collier, and Monroe counties.
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Offshore sampling is planned in the coming weeks to assess the extent of the bloom.
Fish kills suspected to be linked to red tide have been reported in Sarasota and Lee counties, as well as offshore of Collier County. Respiratory irritation, a common symptom of red tide exposure, has also been reported in these areas.
- Southwest Florida: K. brevis was observed at varying concentrations in multiple locations, with high concentrations detected in one sample from Charlotte County.
- Northwest Florida: No red tide was observed.
- East Coast of Florida: No red tide was observed.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) continues to monitor red tide conditions closely. They are using a combination of water sampling, satellite imagery, and reports from the public to track the bloom’s movement and intensity.
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The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) provides red tide forecasts for the Gulf of Mexico, incorporating data from the FWC and other partners. These forecasts can help residents and visitors make informed decisions about beach activities and potential health risks.
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