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Massive Seaweed Blob Headed For Beaches In Florida And Mexico

Author Phil Harris
Sargassum, a seaweed-like algae, covers a beach on June 15, 2019 in Tulum, Mexico. Mexico's Riviera Maya Caribbean tourist towns of Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum are being inundated with tons of foul-smelling seaweed-like algae called sargassum that has turned the pristine blue waters brown and littered the white sands beaches. The government of Mexico is concerned that if the problem persists tourism could suffer. Scientists from South Florida University's College of Marine Science say that sargassum mats could be brought on by global climate change since increased nutrient flows and ocean water upwelling brings nutrients up from the bottom. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

It seems like everyone I know is talking about their upcoming beach vacations. If your summer plans include a trip to a sandy spot in Florida or Mexico, you may find that your party has been crashed. No, not by cocaine shark. I’m talking about “The Blob.”

According to NBC News, a massive blob of seaweed is drifting across the Atlantic straight for the Gulf of Mexico. And “massive” is not an exaggeration. The seasonal sargassum algae bloom, as its formally known, stretches five thousand miles. It’s so big that it can be seen from space.

While the seaweed is beneficial to sea life when it’s in open waters, it can kill coral and harm the ecosystem when it gets close to shore. It also stinks, which is not what you want on your beach vacation. The blob is currently in the Caribbean and is threatening the coasts of Florida and Mexico.

Even a little seaweed on the beach can be off-putting. The amount that’s rolling in with this bloom, one of the largest on record, can have a significant negative impact on beach tourism. However, since this is an annual occurrence, crews should be ready when “The Blob” reaches the shores.

Seaweed-Like Algae Threatens Mexico's Riveria Maya Tourism Industry As It Washes Up Upon Once Pristine Beaches

A worker uses a wheelbarrow to clean up piles of sargassum, a seaweed-like algae, from a beach on June 15, 2019 in Tulum, Mexico. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

Phil Harris is 50% of "Phil & Mel in the Afternoon" on K104.7. He has been with the station since 2013 and on the air in Charlotte since 2000. Before coming to the Queen City, Phil worked for radio stations in Pittsburgh, Austin, and Seattle. In addition to the weekly "Throwback Threesome" music video feature, Phil writes about things that matter to Charlotte sports fans and pet owners. He happens to be both.

Two Carolina Beach Towns Among the Best in the U.S.

The countdown to summer is getting smaller and smaller. Who is ready for some warm weather and summer fun? I can just picture the summer energy now. Beach towns are a very popular getaway destinations and great for the entire family. The United States is filled with plenty of beach towns for people to enjoy from the East coast to the West coast.

Thrillist has its list of the best beach towns in the United States. These towns are home to great food, beaches, activities, and more that you could enjoy while visiting. If you are contemplating a beach town vacation then this list might be a great place for you to start. But, we are excited that two Carolina towns made the list. That’s right, there are two Carolina towns that are the best beach towns in America. One in South Carolina and one in North Carolina, so you have plenty of options. This summer, take a road trip to one of Carolina’s best beach town destinations and enjoy. Can you guess which towns are on the list? Check it out below and tell me what you think!

  • Nags Head, North Carolina

    That’s right! Nags Head made the top list of best beach towns in the United States. If you’re looking for somewhere fun to relax this summer then Nags Head is the place to go. Nags Head is one of the beaches in the Outer Banks area of North Carolina. Thrillist names some of the must things to do and eat while you’re there. Head to Biscuits N’ Porn, I Got Your Crabs, and even check out Nags Head Wood Preserve. Looks like you might want to start planning your vacation for this summer.

    @elitefoodies

    Top 3 restaurants and dishes in OBX! #foodie #foodtiktok #outerbanks #northcarolina #nagshead #yummy

    ♬ A-Punk - Vampire Weekend

  • Folly Beach, South Carolina

    Head to Folly Beach and enjoy a great time! You can head down to the Charleston area and check out Folly Beach for some fun beach fun. There are dozens of bars and things to do when in the Folly Beach area. Great seafood, great music at the local bars, and boutiques with great fashion. Some of the things you can check out include Bert’s Market, Lowlife Bar, and more!

  • Tybee Island, Georgia

    If you want to get out of the Carolinas, then Georgia isn’t too far of a drive either. Head down near Savannah and check out Tybee Island. Tybee Island is just 30 minutes outside of downtown Savannah and offers tons of fun beach fun. Being so close to Savannah, you can enjoy a little bit of both including great food and bars when you’re not on the beach. Tybee Island itself offers places for you to enjoy such as Crab Shack, The Deck, Seaside Sweets, and more!

  • Virginia Beach, Virginia

    In case you really want a road trip, another close one on the list is Virginia Beach. There is so much to see and do in Virginia Beach as it has grown and changed over the last few years. There is a great art scene, laid back vibe, and more in the area. Grab some great seafood at one of the many restaurants in the area or grab a drink and listen to music at one of the local bars. Either way, there’s so much fun to be had!

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