Florida Red Tide Marine Forecast

Red tides, also called harmful algal blooms (HABs), occur when microscopic algae multiply to higher-than-normal concentrations, often discoloring the water. Although more than 50 HAB species occur in the Gulf of Mexico, one of the most well-known species is Karenia brevis, the red tide organism. A red tide is an event that occurs on the coastline when algae—a plant-like organism—grows out of control. The name “red tide” comes from the fact that overgrown algae can cause the water to change color. Red tides can be hazardous to human health and sea life. The most common telltale sign from human and pet (dogs) health that red tide blooms are nearby can usually be identified by respiratory issues, coughing, sneezing and watery eyes. This reaction typically occurs when people and animals are at the beach or near the coast.

Florida coastal red tide forecast

Charlotte Harbor region HAB upper water column forecast trajectories.

Charlotte Harbor region HAB lower water column forecast trajectories.

Data is courtesy of the University of South Florida