Portuguese Man O’ War Spotted at Las Teresitas: Beachgoers Warned of Potential Danger
The idyllic Las Teresitas Beach in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, known for its golden sands and tranquil waters, has raised a yellow warning flag after several Portuguese Man O’ War were found washed up onshore. These deceptively beautiful yet dangerous sea creatures are not true jellyfish but siphonophores, colonial organisms whose long, venomous tentacles can deliver an excruciatingly painful sting.
Increased Safety Measures Implemented
To enhance awareness and prevent potential stings, a purple flag, specifically designated for hazardous marine fauna, has been hoisted alongside the yellow warning flag. This signals bathers to remain extra cautious while in the water. The Red Cross has also deployed a patrol boat to scour the swimming areas, ensuring that any additional Portuguese Man O’ War are identified and removed before they pose a greater threat to the public.
What Makes the Portuguese Man O’ War So Dangerous?
With their gas-filled, translucent blue or purple float bobbing on the water’s surface, these creatures might look harmless, but beneath the waves, their long tentacles—sometimes stretching over 30 feet (9 meters)—carry potent venom capable of causing severe pain, skin irritation, and in rare cases, allergic reactions that require medical attention. Unlike jellyfish, they cannot actively swim; instead, they drift with ocean currents and winds, making their arrival unpredictable and sporadic.
Not an Isolated Incident
This is not the first time these marine interlopers have appeared in the Canary Islands. Just last summer, in 2023, a 6-year-old girl was stung by a Portuguese Man O’ War at San Sebastián, La Gomera, prompting temporary beach closures and heightened safety measures. More recently, multiple sightings were reported at La Pinta Beach in Costa Adeje, raising concerns about their growing presence along Spain’s coasts this season.
What Should Beachgoers Do?
Visitors to Las Teresitas and other beaches in the region are urged to take the following precautions:
- Observe Beach Flags: Always check for warning flags and abide by lifeguard instructions.
- Avoid Contact: If you see a Portuguese Man O’ War, do not touch it, even if it appears to be dead. Their tentacles can still deliver a painful sting even after they have washed ashore.
- Report Sightings: Notify lifeguards or authorities if you spot one in the water or on the sand.
- Seek Medical Help if Stung: If stung, rinse the area with seawater (not fresh water), remove any tentacle remnants with tweezers or the edge of a card, and seek medical attention if pain persists or if an allergic reaction occurs.
Staying Safe While Enjoying the Ocean
Despite these recent sightings, Las Teresitas Beach remains a stunning and popular destination. Authorities are taking all necessary steps to ensure visitor safety while monitoring the situation closely. As long as beachgoers stay informed and cautious, they can still enjoy the natural beauty of Tenerife’s coastline while keeping an eye out for these mesmerizing yet formidable ocean drifters.
So, if you’re planning a beach day, bring your sunscreen, stay aware of the flags, and most importantly, respect the sea and its incredible yet sometimes dangerous inhabitants!