Is there a sargassum prediction for 2023?


Is there a sargassum prediction 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.


Will the seaweed blob hit the Caribbean?

While the 2023 sargassum bloom isn't as large as originally expected, it will still be a major year for the algae and the lab expected it to continue increasing in the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico in March. It is expected to travel west from the Caribbean Sea and become a hazard on some beaches in Florida.


Does sargassum seaweed affect cruise ships?

It will not stop any ship. However, if you are out fishing on your boat, you will likely spend time cleaning a fouled prop. The real impact for a cruise is if the seaweed has landed on the beach you plan to visit.


Why are Caribbean beaches full of seaweed?

Researchers blame multiple factors for the increased levels of sargassum - including climate change, human sewage, fertilisers being washed from Brazil's rivers into the Atlantic Ocean and dust blowing west from Africa's Sahara Desert.


Does St Lucia get sargassum?

Sargassum inundations occur mainly on the windward coast of Saint Lucia like most Eastern Caribbean Island States, with occasional landings occurring on the southwest coast.


What month is sargassum worse?

Sargassum season in the Mexican Caribbean typically runs from May through October, with July and August generally being the worst months for its arrival.


Which Caribbean islands are not affected by sargassum?

Palm Beach in Aruba, Dutch Caribbean It's one of the most reliable Caribbean islands without sargassum. While there are several small, boutique-sized hotels in Aruba, here are two of our favourite large resorts on Palm Beach and Eagle Beach.


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.


Is sargassum in the Turks and Caicos 2023?

7 September 2023 Update: The Turks and Caicos is experiencing medium levels of sargassum at this time. Grace Bay, Leeward Beach, Sapodilla Bay, Taylor Bay, and the Bight Beach remain largely free of sargassum. Sargassum that washed onshore in late August has largely dissipated.