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Beach hazard warnings issued due to red tide in Southwest Florida

Posted at 10:13 AM, Jun 26, 2018
and last updated 2018-06-27 08:51:04-04

LEE COUNTY, Fla. – A beach hazards statement for red tide is in effect through Thursday evening, issued by the National Weather Service.  This includes coastal northern Lee County and coastal Sarasota County.

Possible respiratory irritation is forecast in some coastal areas.  Symptoms may include coughing, sneezing, and tearing eyes.

People with respiratory conditions such as asthma, emphysema, and other pulmonary diseases may be more sensitive. Irritation may vary locally and throughout the day.

If you experience uncomfortable symptoms, consider going to an unaffected beach nearby.

Conditions reports from NOAA for Southwest Florida can be found HERE.
    
You can find unaffected beaches by checking reports of recent local observations and data on the websites for Mote Marine Laboratory and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

Or consult the Florida Department of Health.