Is seaweed a problem in Mexico?
Is seaweed a problem in Mexico? Since 2011, sargassum has worsened as a nuisance — possibly due to an influx of synthetic fertilizers into the Atlantic Ocean — with the brown algae washing up on Caribbean beaches where it rots, stinks like rotten eggs and devastates tourism, including in Mexico where 30 million go for beach holidays annually.
Should I go to Mexico in August?
If you're going to Mexico in August, just be prepared for some afternoon showers and higher temperatures, and you'll do just fine. The great thing about August Mexico weather is that though you'll have rain, the storms tend to pass quickly, and the sun comes back out.
How can we prevent seaweed in Mexico?
Aids are so-called algae barriers. They prevent the seaweed from getting anywhere near the beaches. These barriers have been set up in front of the beaches around Playa del Carmen, Cancun and Tulum and are now increasingly being used on other beaches.
Do resorts clean up sargassum?
Popular resort hubs, including Playa del Carmen and Tulum, have ramped up efforts to deter sargassum from affecting travelers. What is this? Both destinations have set up temporary barriers and hired more cleaners in an effort to attract more travelers.
What months are best to avoid sargassum?
In Mexico, sargassum seaweed season is generally between May and October each year. If you travel to the Caribbean coast of Mexico outside of that time period you can generally avoid large mats of seaweed on the beaches. Cancun to Tulum seaweed map in March 2022.
Is Playa del Carmen full of seaweed?
The beaches in Playa del Carmen experience a seasonal seaweed influx that can change throughout the year. While efforts are being made to address the situation, visitors should know that the seaweed may impact their beach experience.
Where can I avoid sargassum?
Playa Porto Mari on Curacao, Dutch Caribbean One of the most beautiful beaches in Curacao also happens to be one of the best Caribbean beaches without sargassum. Located on the west coast of the island of Curacao, Playa Porto Mari is a private beach which means there is an entrance fee.
Is there a sargassum forecast for 2023?
Since 2011, 2023 still ranks in the top half of the worst sargassum seaweed seasons. With the latest data, USF researchers say in June, sargassum will likely decrease in the Gulf of Mexico, meaning beachgoers may not have such a smelly experience. The USF lab forecasts the decrease to continue through August.
Is sargassum bad in July?
Sargassum is at its worst between April and August, peaking in July and August, although this year saw the seaweed arrive early, with some beaches being hit heavily in March. What is this?
Is there still a seaweed problem in Mexico 2023?
However it's still wise to keep a watch on seaweed conditions as landings of sargassum can still occur. The most recent sargassum forecast for Mexico's Caribbean Coast predicts minimal seaweed in summer 2023 but there may be landings in some locations (such as this beach on June 2023).
What part of Cancun has no seaweed?
Like many other travelers, you've probably already heard about the seaweed or sargassum problem along the Quintana Roo coastline. Get to know more about Playa Mujeres: A Sargassum-Free Haven in Cancun, and prepare to enjoy a spectacular Caribbean getaway!
Where is the best place in Mexico to avoid seaweed?
While exposed eastern shores are most likely to get hit by surges of sargassum, some beaches in Mexico have no sargassum. This includes Playa Norte on Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo and Cozumel's western shore. They're generally seaweed-free. However, much depends on winds and ocean currents.
What beaches in Mexico have no seaweed 2023?
While exposed eastern shores are most likely to get hit by surges of sargassum, some beaches in Mexico have no sargassum. This includes Playa Norte on Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo and Cozumel's western shore. They're generally seaweed-free. However, much depends on winds and ocean currents.
Where will the sargassum be in May 2023?
Bits of Sargassum seaweed are washing ashore around Avenida 16-18 on Tuesday, May 23, 2023. Giant blobs of Sargassum hug the shoreline next to the William O Lockhart Municipal Pier in Lake Worth Beach, Florida on June 1, 2023. Sargassum accumulates on the beach at Phipps Ocean Park Tuesday May 30, 2023 in Palm Beach.
Will sargassum hit Florida 2023?
USF reports it remains difficult to predict exact timing and location for individual beaching events but substantial amounts of the seaweed are expected in May in both the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico. June is forecast to be the likely peak of the 2023 season, but impacts are expected to continue into July.