Sargassum surges hit beaches in Florida and Mexico

Massive accumulations of sargassum macroalgae are impacting coastal regions in Florida and Mexico, creating significant environmental and economic challenges for tourism-dependent areas.

In Miami-Dade, Florida, officials reported that approximately 9,000 tons of sargassum were removed from beaches in July alone, marking the highest monthly collection on record for the county. The University of South Florida estimated that roughly 33.6 million metric tons of the algae were distributed across the Atlantic, Caribbean, and Gulf of Mexico in June. The accumulation poses risks to coastal ecosystems and can produce strong odors due to the release of hydrogen sulfide during decomposition.

In Cancún, Mexico, local authorities reported that 26,600 tons of sargassum have been collected since the beginning of the year, nearly doubling the volume recorded during the same period in 2025. Officials expect the total collection for the year could reach 30,000 tons by August. Local brigades are utilizing tractors and coordinated municipal services to manage the influx and maintain beach accessibility.