As Memorial Day weekend approaches, the beach will be a popular destination, but it comes with a few potential hazards, including seaweed, sharks, rip currents, and cold water. Here’s what to watch out for:
Seaweed Forecast
According to Chuanmin Hu, an oceanography professor at the University of South Florida, seaweed will have a “minimal impact” on Florida beaches this weekend. While some seaweed will be present, particularly in the Florida Keys, it shouldn’t be a significant issue. Offshore, sargassum has been observed in the Gulf of Mexico near Texas and the Mississippi Delta, but it’s not expected to affect beaches there significantly.
Christine J. Mariani of Sargassum Monitoring estimates that Florida beaches will be largely free of sargassum this weekend. However, within the next 10 to 15 days, a large mass of sargassum could impact Florida, the Bahamas, and the Keys if weather conditions remain as forecasted.
While sargassum is beneficial for marine life, in large quantities, it can be problematic. It clogs boat propellers, piles up on beaches, and releases hydrogen sulfide, which smells like rotten eggs and can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat. South Florida and the Caribbean have experienced high levels of sargassum in recent years, causing global concern.
Shark Safety in Massachusetts
Beachgoers in Massachusetts should be cautious due to recent sightings of marine mammals with white shark bites. John Chisholm of the New England Aquarium advises reviewing shark safety guidelines, being aware of sharks in shallow waters, avoiding areas with seals or visible fish schools, and staying close to shore for emergency access.
So far in 2024, there has been only one reported shark bite in the U.S., which occurred in South Carolina and was not fatal. Last year, there were 36 reported shark bites in the U.S., with two fatalities.
Cold Water Dangers in Maine
In Maine, the primary concern is the cold water temperature. Despite warm air temperatures in the low 70s to upper 60s, water temperatures are still in the mid-40s, which can quickly cause hypothermia. The National Weather Service in Caribou, Maine, advises extreme caution for anyone on boats or paddle craft to avoid the threat of cold water immersion.
Rip Currents
A rip current warning is in effect for beaches near Brownsville, Texas, according to the National Weather Service. Rip currents are a significant hazard, causing about 100 drowning deaths annually in the U.S. These strong, narrow currents flow away from the shore, pulling even strong swimmers into deeper water. Last summer, rip currents were responsible for seven deaths over ten days in Panama City Beach, Florida, the highest number of beach fatalities at any single location in 2023.
As you head to the beach this Memorial Day weekend, stay informed and cautious to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
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