ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Elevated concentrations of red tide continue to persist off Florida's southwest coast, with dead fish and respiratory irritation reported.
NOAA's National Ocean Service latest report shows a "moderate" respiratory irritation level along the Collier and Lee County shorelines. This means people in the area could experience mild symptoms related to red tide.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, which also publishes frequent red tide reports, last week said the area is experiencing a "high" concentration of the red tide.
Karenia brevis -- the organism that produces red tide -- is a type of algae that produces neurotoxins that become suspended in the air and cause respiratory illness, NOAA says. Symptoms can range from asthma, eye irritation and other respiratory issues.
The harmful algal blooms also contribute to fish kills. Much of southwest Florida and the Tampa Bay area were plagued with high concentrations of red tide in 2018, leading to a massive die-off of marine life. Beachgoers were annoyed and businesses suffered, too.
NOAA says bouts of red tide can last as little as a few years or longer than a year.
- US House approves $2,000 COVID-19 relief checks, bill heads to GOP-led Senate
- Ready for the $600 second stimulus check? Here's the potential timeline
- Body camera video shows segment of Tampa police's 21-hour standoff with suspected shooter
- Man accused of killing 12-year-old girl in BUI boating crash faces 2 felony charges
- Police camera captures moment downtown Nashville bomb went off
- Biden calls out Trump administration's 'irresponsibility' during transition
►Breaking news and weather alerts: Get the free 10 Tampa Bay app
►Stay In the Know! Sign up now for the Brightside Blend Newsletter
