The Atlantic saw a new all-time record for seaweed coverage in April, raising concerns for Florida beaches in the upcoming summer months.
According to the University of South Florida Optical Oceanography Lab, the total amount of sargassum in the Atlantic in April exceeded the previous record by 40%, setting a new high for 2025.
University of South Florida oceanography professor Chuanmin Hu stated that the current mass of seaweed is unprecedented and could continue to grow throughout the season. The reasons behind this surge are still under investigation.
Recent reports of sargassum beaching events in the Caribbean and along the southeast coast of Florida serve as early warnings for the region.
As sargassum continues to wash ashore, Florida is bracing for a challenging summer ahead. The impact of the seaweed bloom is expected to last from late May through early September, affecting coastal areas from the Florida Keys to Jacksonville.
The unpredictable nature of ocean currents and wind patterns will determine the extent of seaweed accumulation on Florida beaches.
While sargassum is crucial for marine life, excessive amounts can deter beachgoers due to its slimy texture and unpleasant odor as it decomposes. Local governments in Florida often allocate significant resources for clean-up efforts.
With millions of metric tons of sargassum already recorded in the Atlantic, experts anticipate further increases in the coming months.
The historic presence of sargassum dates back to Christopher Columbus' voyages, with modern observations highlighting a shift in its distribution across the Atlantic.
The emergence of the Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt underscores the scale and impact of this natural phenomenon on coastal ecosystems.
As sargassum continues to migrate towards the Caribbean and Gulf regions, Florida remains on high alert for beach inundation in the coming months.
Stay tuned for updates on the evolving seaweed situation along the southeastern coast of the United States.