Dangerous Portuguese Men-Of-War Spotted At 3 Rhode Island Beaches

NARRAGANSETT, RI — Several Portuguese Men-of- war were found at three Rhode Island state beaches over the last couple of days, the RI Department of Environmental Management (DEM) said Tuesday.

The dangerous jellyfish-like creatures were found at Scarborough State Beach in Narragansett on Monday and at Roger Wheeler Beach in Narragansett and East Matunuck Beach in South Kingstown on Tuesday, DEM officials said.

Portuguese Men-of-war have long, trailing tentacles and a painful sting. Purple flags are being flown to warn beachgoers of dangerous marine life conditions.

"This marine event may continue for a little while but is typically short-lived," a DEM said. "Staff will continue monitoring all ocean beaches for signs of them."

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Men-of-war stings are rarely deadly but can be extremely painful and cause welts on exposed skin.

To treat Portuguese Man-of-war stings, carefully remove any remaining tentacles with tweezers or a gloved hand. Then, rinse the area with white vinegar and then soak the skin in hot, but not scalding, water for at least 20 minutes.

DEM officials said the Men-of-War were likely brought up from southern waters, carried to Rhode Island by southerly winds.

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