Red Tide Areas Remain In Manatee, Sarasota Counties

SARASOTA COUNTY, FL —The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission reports high concentrations of the red tide organism Karenia brevis in Manatee County and Sarasota County.

Hereis a list of areas with high concentrations of K. brevis as of Thursday afternoon, according to the FWC:

• Anna Maria Island
• Bayfront Park Addition (Sarasota Bay)
• Siesta Beach
• Turtle Beach
• North Jetty

K. brevis produces toxins that can affect fish and other ocean life, causing them to die and wash up on beaches.

Red tide can cause people with severe or chronic respiratory conditions to be seriously ill. The FWC says swimming during a red tide is safe for most people, though it can cause skin irritation and a burning sensation in the eyes.

If the concentration of K. brevis is high enough, the water will appear red or brown.