Florida’s coastal communities are enjoying a welcome reprieve from the persistent threat of red tide, as the red tide organism, Karenia brevis, was not observed in any samples collected statewide over the past week. This marks a significant period of clear conditions, bringing relief to residents and visitors alike.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reported today that no Karenia brevis was found in any samples, indicating a statewide absence of the harmful algal bloom. This positive trend extends beyond sample observations, with no fish kills suspected to be related to red tide reported to FWC’s Fish Kill Hotline or other partners during the same period.
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Furthermore, a key indicator of red tide’s impact on human health—respiratory irritation—was also not reported anywhere in Florida over the past week. This suggests that the air quality along the state’s coastlines has remained unaffected by red tide toxins.
Scientists continue to leverage advanced monitoring techniques, including chlorophyll satellite imagery from the University of South Florida (USF) and NOAA NCCOS, to track nearshore and offshore conditions. These tools provide a broader perspective on water quality and help anticipate potential shifts in marine environments.
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Looking ahead, forecasts from the USF-FWC Collaboration for Prediction of Red Tides for Pinellas County to northern Monroe County predict northern movement of surface waters and minimal transport of subsurface waters in most areas over the next 3.5 days.
This outlook suggests a continued period of clear conditions for much of Florida’s west coast.
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