ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Pinellas County and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) have detected low to medium concentrations of red tide in recent water samples.
In a news release, county leaders said low concentrations were found off Pass-a-Grille, the Clearwater Intracoastal Waterway and Honeymoon Island while medium concentrations were found off St. Pete Beach, Madeira Beach and Dunedin Causeway.
"Residents along the beach communities, especially those cleaning out their homes and businesses from Hurricane Helene, may experience respiratory irritation when concentrations are higher, especially when the wind is blowing onshore," county leaders stated in the release.
Officials noted that it's unknown if Hurricane Helene is linked to the presence of red tide in Pinellas County waters.
What is red tide?
The National Ocean Service says red tide is a type of harmful algal bloom caused by microscopic algae that produce toxins that kill fish and make shellfish dangerous to eat. The bloom gets its name from the fact that it often turns the water red.
Human illnesses caused by red tide, though rare, can be debilitating or even fatal, experts say. Instances of red tide in the Gulf of Mexico have reportedly been documented for centuries, but blooms can be worsened by excess nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorous.
Residents can report fish kills to FWC through the FWC Reporter App or by calling 800-636-0511. They can also file a report online.
To keep track of the water quality at Florida beaches, visit the Florida Department of Health's website.