Red Tide Season in the Panhandle Coast
Red tide season typically begins in early fall and can persist for months. While the Southwest and central-southwest remain free of harmful algal blooms, the Red Tide is causing problems in parts of the Panhandle.
High concentrations of Red Tide have been detected along the Panhandle's coast, especially in Bay and Gulf counties, affecting St. Authorities have warned beachgoers to stay off the water to avoid skin, eye, and respiratory problems.
- Warning against eating shellfish, as they may have become contaminated and be lethal
- Fish kills have been reported in some areas
The red tide is a harmful algal bloom caused by the naturally occurring alga Karenia brevis.
K. brevis appears in large quantities — typically in the Gulf of Mexico — it can turn ocean water red, brown, or green.
Author's summary: Red tide season starts with high levels in the Panhandle coast.