Red tide from the Gulf of Mexico has extended into Tampa Bay, with low concentrations of the marine toxin detected in multiple locations off the St. Petersburg coastline, according to a report issued Wednesday by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

Affected Areas

The report highlights four key locations in St. Petersburg where low concentrations of red tide have been found:

• The Pier and Bayboro Harbor in downtown St. Petersburg
• Lassing Park, south of downtown
• Maximo Park, near the Sunshine Skyway Bridge

Additionally, low concentrations were also recorded at:

• South Skyway Fishing Pier
• Anna Maria Island
• Sarasota Bay at New Pass Dock
• Ringling Causeway

Impacts Reported

Over the past week, red tide has been associated with fish kills and respiratory irritation along Sarasota County beaches, further underscoring its environmental and health effects.

Statewide Findings

The FWC’s latest sampling efforts detected the red tide organism, Karenia brevis, in 65 samples collected from the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic coasts. Among these samples, bloom concentrations (greater than 100,000 cells per liter) were observed in:

• Hillsborough County (one sample)
• Sarasota County (six samples)
• Offshore of Lee County (one sample)

Satellite Imagery

Satellite data this week reveals a substantial 75-mile-long patch of elevated chlorophyll along Florida’s Southwest coast. This patch, located 5 to 10 miles offshore of Charlotte, Lee, and Collier counties, spans about 35 miles at its widest point. Northerly winds and ocean currents appear to have shifted these patches southward, potentially influencing red tide distribution.

Ongoing Monitoring

The FWC continues to closely monitor red tide levels along Florida’s coasts. Residents and visitors are advised to stay informed about water quality updates, especially in affected areas, to minimize potential health risks and environmental impacts.

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(Image credit: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission)