The Man O’ War are are back and washing up on Okaloosa and Walton County beaches.
According to the South Walton Fire District, the Portuguese Man O’ War were widespread over the weekend, both in the water and on the shore.
“These jellyfish-like marine pests can and will produce a very painful sting,” said the SWFD. “Use warm water, NOT ICE, to relieve pain. Call 911 immediately if you begin to experience an allergic reaction.”
Additionally, Man O’ War were spotted across Okaloosa Island too.
Keep in mind that just because they are on shore, does not mean they are dead. Also, they are just as capable to sting when washed up on the shore as they are in the water.
“Man O’ War have a purple-ish blue tentacles that range anywhere from about 12 inches on up to six feet on the really big ones,” said Beach Safety Chief Rich Huffnagle. “Sometimes their top portion will be inflated, which is almost like an oblong sort of purple football, or it can be deflated. Either way, it’s one of the jellyfish varieties that is very easy to spot.”
Huffnagle added that if you get stung, get to one of the lifeguards out on the beach.
- “We’ve got lifeguards all along the coast here, and they’ve got treatment available for you.”
They are pretty…but they pack a painful sting!