Sargassum affects 42% of monitored beaches in Quintana Roo

Approximately 42.1% of monitored beaches in Quintana Roo are experiencing moderate to excessive accumulations of sargassum macroalgae. According to satellite monitoring from the Caribbean Sea Environmental Monitoring and Climate Change Network, 59 out of 140 evaluated beaches show significant presence, with the highest impact concentrated in the southern region near Mahahual and Xcalak.

Of the affected areas, nine beaches report excessive accumulations, 32 show abundant presence, and 18 have moderate levels. To combat this, the Mexican Navy (Semar) has begun implementing a containment strategy using dynamic barriers in Tulum and Playa del Carmen to intercept the algae before it reaches the shore. The agency is also preparing to add 17 vessels to its fleet by 2027 to strengthen open-water collection efforts.