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When red tide is present, a sign will be posted to inform the public and provide information. [DOC 13KB]

Example of Red Tide sign [DOC 13KB]


Red Tide

Main Administrative Office

Protect yourself and family against Florida Red Tide exposure. Please read signage when you go to area beaches. Not all beaches are affected. Conditions can change daily. Check the Mote Marine twice daily Beach Conditions Report at https://www.visitbeaches.org/ or call 1-941-BEACHES

Red Tide Observed Effects at Monitored Beaches
LocationDateCell Count /L
Longboat Key12/09/20240
Bird Key Park12/09/202456,500
North Lido Beach12/09/20244,000
Lido Beach (Casino)12/09/20240
South Lido Park12/09/2024N/ABeach Closed
Siesta Key12/09/20246000
Turtle Beach12/09/20241000
Nokomis Beach12/09/20240
North Jetty12/09/2024500
Venice Beach12/09/2024500
Service Club Park12/09/2024500
Venice Fishing Pier12/09/2024500
Brohard Beach12/09/20241000
Caspersen Beach12/09/2024N/ABeach Closed
Manasota Beach12/09/2024500
Blind Pass12/09/20241000Beach Closed

Table Data Last Modified: Fri Dec 20, 2024 11:10:57 EST

DescriptionKarenia brevis cells/LPossible Effects (Karenia brevis only)
Not present in background0 - 1,000None Anticipated
Very Low> 1,000 - 10,000Possible respiratory irritation; shellfish harvesting closures > 6 cells/mL
Low> 10,000 -< 100,000Respiratory irritation; possible fish kills and bloom chlorophyll probably detected by satellites at upper range.
Medium> 101,000 -< 1,000,000Respiratory irritation and probably fish kills
High> 1,000,000As above plus discoloration

Table Data Last Modified: Thu Nov 14, 2024 11:30:41 EST

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Red tides have been documented along Florida's gulf coast since the 1840’s.

  • The Florida red tide organism, Karenia brevis, produces a toxin that may kill marine animals and affect humans.
  • A red tide bloom is a higher-than-normal concentration of a microscopic alga (plant-like organisms).
It is important to realize that many people still enjoy the beaches during red tides. Respiratory irritation and dead fish are not always present.People may experience respiratory irritation (coughing, sneezing, and tearing) when the red tide organism is present along a coast and winds blow its aerosol onshore.
  • People with severe or chronic respiratory conditions are advised to avoid red tide areas.
  • Generally, symptoms are temporary.
  • Swimming in waters with red tide is safe for most people.
  • However, red tide may cause some people to suffer from skin irritation and burning eyes.
  • If you experience irritation, get out of the water and thoroughly wash.
  • For more information regarding red tide, visit our Links to our Partners 
A Red Tide Rack Card [PDF 2.36MB] with useful facts and tips about red tide is available.