Most of Florida has actually been spared by the red tide

Sparkling jewel-tone waters and white sand are a characteristic of Florida’s famous beaches. Occasionally, visitors to the Sunshine State might encounter heaps of dark green or brown sargassum, or seaweed, as the seasons and tides fluctuate.

Last week, however, Governor of Florida Rick Scott declared a State of Emergency, after a toxic but natural phenomenon known as red tide swept across the Gulf of Florida, leaving behind hundreds of dead fish and other marine life.

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Though it can be annoying to swim through, not all algae, like the seaweed pictured here, is harmful to ocean ecosystems.

In an exclusive interview with Visit Florida, PAX discussed the current challenges the state is experiencing regarding the circulation of misinformation surrounding red tide, as well as alternative travel solutions for vacationers who have chosen Florida as a summer vacation spot.

"While red tide is a naturally occurring phenomenon, this year it has particularly affected Southwest Florida's beaches. We are working with our partners in the area and state agencies to mitigate the red tide's effects, and we will be communicating with visitors just as soon as the beaches are clean and back to normal,” said Meagan Dougherty, director of public relations, Visit Florida.

Dougherty continued:

“For those who have already booked their vacations, it's important to keep in mind that Southwest Florida has a number of other exciting opportunities to offer outside of the beach, including dining, shopping, entertainment, museums and more."

What is red tide?

There are many different kinds of algae present in both lakes and oceans, and for the most part, algae are perfectly harmless, and actually incredibly beneficial to an ecosystem. Red tide, although highly toxic, is a naturally occurring phenomenon that happens when too many toxic algae re-populate, leaving behind what’s called a harmful algal bloom (HAB).

Varying in colour from rust, to brown, and sometimes even pink, red tides have no affiliation with the changing tides, but rather, might be better explained as a result of direct changes in environmental temperatures, winds, and saline content. These factors might then explain why algae blooms, such as the one happening in Florida right now, are more common in the summertime, when both the ocean and land temperatures are substantially hotter.

East Fort Lauderdale is one of many beaches in Florida not affected by this year's red tide.

Which parts of Florida are affected?

“Red tide is currently only in Southwest Florida,” Dougherty said. “Florida has 825 miles of beaches and approximately 150 miles have been affected by red tide.”

Travellers heading to Florida are advised to frequently check this link for updates on beaches that may or may not be affected by red tide, as fluctuating algae populations means these reports constantly change.

Individual county governments issue public beach closures, which can also change from day to day. Below is the contact information for each county.

• Lee County: 239-338-3500
• Manatee County: 941-748-0747
• Charlotte County: 941-613-3220
• Collier County: 239-252-5530
• Hillsborough County: 813-307-8000
• Pinellas County: 727-824-6900
• Sarasota County: 941-861-5000

Is it safe to visit Florida?

Travelling to Florida is perfectly safe.

As mentioned, there are plenty of things to do in Southwest Florida that go beyond the beach. However, travellers who have booked a beachfront hotel, or plan on participating in water-related activities should note the following:

• Red tide can produce toxins that can trigger respiratory complications, such as coughing, sneezing, or wheezing (having difficulty breathing).
• Travellers who accidently ingest water affected by red tide can become seriously ill--if you must open your eyes underwater, wear a mask.
• It is safe to swim in beaches with red tide, however, some people will experience skin irritations (rashes or burning).
• Travellers can still enjoy Florida’s seafood restaurants, so long as it’s store-bought and/or restaurant-prepared. Avoid eating recreationally-sourced mollusks, oysters, or clams, which can absorb algae and bacteria. Crabs, shrimp, and fish are safe to eat, and scallops can be eaten, so long as it’s the muscle part.
• Scuba diving and watersports are still possible, so long as travellers are aware of the risks associated with entering waters contaminated with red tide.

Visitors to Florida are encouraged to check back with www.visitbeaches.org for the most up-to-date information.