Powerful storms have brought Portuguese Man O’ War to Spain’s beaches, turning coastlines purple and raising alarms over painful stings and serious health risks for tourists.

Spanish coastal destinations are on high alert after strong storms have brought an alarming sight to their shores, with beaches now tinged a dangerous purple.

Recent powerful westerly storms hitting the Strait of Gibraltar have left Spanish beaches, favored by tourists, with a disturbing surprise. Hundreds of Portuguese Man O’ War (Physalia physalis) have washed ashore, turning the coast into a vivid purple warning sign.

This marine creature is causing alarm among beachgoers, as its sting is far from a mild discomfort. It can lead to severe pain, muscle spasms, and, in rare cases, serious neurological or cardiac issues. The tentacles of the Portuguese Man O’ War, which can stretch up to 50 meters beneath the surface, are equipped with stinging cells that can paralyze prey and provoke intense reactions in humans.

While often mislabeled as jellyfish, the Portuguese Man O’ War is actually a siphonophore – a colony of polyps that functions collectively, drifting with wind and ocean currents.

The influx of these creatures has been particularly noticeable on Los Lances Beach in Tarifa, Cadiz, with other reports coming from Malaga, Marbella, Fuengirola, and Benalmádena.

If stung, experts recommend avoiding rubbing the affected area, applying cold compresses, and rinsing with saltwater. Freshwater should be avoided as it can trigger the release of more venom. Antihistamine or corticosteroid creams are advised, and medical attention should be sought if pain worsens or symptoms persist.

Scientists suggest that the rise in Portuguese Man O’ War populations is linked to factors such as warmer water temperatures, pollution, and a decline in natural predators like sea turtles.

Monitoring these creatures is crucial to better understand their movement and predict where they may appear next, especially with Easter approaching and more tourists flocking to the beaches of the Costa del Sol.

To stay informed, tourists and locals can use apps like Infomedusa, Meduseo, or MedusApp to track jellyfish and Portuguese Man O’ War sightings in real-time.

Anyone encountering these creatures is encouraged to contact marine biologist Jesús Bellido , providing the location (beach name or coordinates), sighting date, and photographs.

The post Spain’s Coastal Paradise Threatened by Portuguese Man O’ War Invasion, Turning Beaches Purple and Exposing Tourists to Painful Stings and Severe Health Risks appeared first on Travel And Tour World.