The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has issued an update on red tide conditions, reporting the detection of the harmful algal bloom organism Karenia brevis in 60 samples collected from Southwest Florida over the past week. Of these, 12 samples showed bloom concentrations exceeding 100,000 cells per liter, primarily in Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, Lee, and Collier counties.
Southwest Florida: Observations of K. brevis ranged from background to high concentrations. Bloom concentrations were reported in areas spanning Manatee to Collier counties, including offshore waters.
Northwest Florida and East Coast: No detection of K. brevis was reported in these regions.
READ: Florida Gulf Coast Fishing Report: January 17-19, 2025
Satellite imagery from the University of South Florida and NOAA revealed a low-intensity, contiguous patch located 3 to 10 miles offshore of Charlotte to Collier counties earlier in the week. Additional smaller, diffuse patches were observed west of Monroe County and near the Florida Keys.
Impacts on Marine Life and Public Health
- Fish Kills: Reports of fish kills suspected to be linked to red tide were received from Sarasota, Lee, Collier, and Monroe counties.
- Respiratory Irritation: Residents in the same areas experienced respiratory issues attributed to the presence of red tide.
READ: Siberian Air To Plunge Eastern US Into Deep Freeze Next Week, Parts Of Florida Included
Forecasts predict variable water movement for the region over the next 3.5 days, with conditions expected to fluctuate due to changing surface and subsurface currents. The FWC and its partners are closely monitoring the situation, providing daily updates on sampling and red tide activity.
The next update on red tide conditions is scheduled for Wednesday, January 22, 2025.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.