Sargassum invasion threatens spring break beaches

ATLANTA — Spring breakers hoping for pristine beaches may instead find piles of smelly seaweed as a massive bloom of sargassum heads toward parts of the United States coast.

Researchers at The University of South Florida’s Optical Oceanography Laboratory say 13.6 million tons of the floating mats of algae are currently drifting around the Caribbean and heading northwest.  

In the latest sargassum outlook, researchers say the levels are only expected to climb.

“Because of the continuous growth from November to February and because of the record-high sargassum amount in most regions, 2026 is set to be another major sargassum year,” researchers wrote.

The newest map puts Puerto Rico, southern Cuba, Hispaniola and the northern Lesser Antilles at high risk for seaweed wash-ups. The eastern Yucatán Peninsula, Miami Beach and much of the Florida Keys are also at elevated risk.

Florida Fish and Wildlife officials are monitoring the bloom.  

While sargassum is a nuisance to people, according to NOAA, it is actually beneficial to the ecosystem. The algae provides habitat, food and breeding grounds for fish, sea turtles and birds. 

In general, sargassum is not harmful to people. However, when it decomposes it emits hydrogen sulfide gas which smells a lot like rotten eggs.  The Florida Department of Health says the gas can irritate the eyes and respiratory system, particularly for those with asthma.   

If you’re heading to the beach, experts say a few precautions can help if sargassum is piling up along the shore. Keep a close eye on children and avoid touching or swimming near the seaweed, since small stinging creatures can hide inside it. If you do need to move it, wear gloves. People who live nearby may also want to keep windows and doors closed when the odor is strong, and those with asthma or other breathing issues should consider limiting their time on the beach when large amounts wash ashore.