Portuguese man o' war invasion hits Basque beaches, 120 stings reported

A large influx of Portuguese man o' war (Physalia physalis) has swept the northern Spanish coast of the Basque Country, prompting red‑flag warnings and temporary closures of several beaches in Gipuzkoa and Bizkaia. Lifeguards raised red and yellow flags on San Sebastián’s La Concha, Ondarreta and Zurriola, as well as on Zarautz, Getaria, Mutriku and Zumaia. Over 120 beachgoers were stung in a single day, most injuries were minor, but a few required ambulance transport and hospital care.

Authorities attribute the surge to unusually warm sea temperatures (around 24‑25 °C) and persistent north‑easterly winds that push the colonies toward shore. Experts note that the organisms appear to be reproducing in the Gulf of Bizkaia, raising concerns about a longer‑term presence. Similar sightings have been reported on the French Atlantic coast, from Les Landes to Brittany, leading French prefectures to issue comparable warnings.

Health officials advise the public to avoid swimming where red flags are displayed, not to touch the organisms even on sand, and to rinse any sting with seawater, apply cold packs and seek medical attention if severe symptoms develop.