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Harmful algal blooms, known as red tides, have led to the closure of at least six public beaches around Miami, according to the Associated Press. Laboratory results showed moderate levels of toxic algae in the waters off North Miami-Dade and parts of Broward counties, raising concerns over potential fish die-offs and the safety of beachgoers.
Red tides, caused by the algae species Karenia brevis, are occasionally seen in the Gulf of Mexico but are uncommon along Florida’s east coast. It’s believed that the Gulf Stream currents brought these tides to the Atlantic. The new worry is that the algae blooms could spread southward to other beaches.
Besides causing marine life deaths, red tides are also dangerous to humans. Last weekend, beachgoers in Palm Beach County reported symptoms commonly linked to red tides, according to the Miami Herald. This is due to the algae producing toxic chemicals that may result in eye irritation, sneezing, nausea, dizziness, and breathing difficulties.
Not all algal blooms appear red—some can be blue, green, brown, or even purple. As reported by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Florida red tides may last anywhere from several weeks to over a year, with their duration depending on factors like sunlight, nutrient levels, salinity, wind speeds, and water currents.
