ENVIRONMENT

Mexico Caribbean resorts hit by record sargassum invasion

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Record quantities of foul-smelling sargassum seaweed are inundating beaches along Mexico’s Caribbean coast, disrupting tourism and raising environmental concerns, according to officials and researchers speaking in late July. Authorities in Quintana Roo, home to Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum, project about 119,000 tons of sargassum will reach shore by the end of the year, surpassing last year’s 96,000-ton record. The decomposing seaweed produces a strong odor and has forced some beach closures, hurting hotels, restaurants and shops. Mexico’s federal government is preparing an emergency response plan, while beach workers struggle daily to clear accumulating seaweed from the Riviera Maya shoreline.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Last year Quintana Roo records 96,000 tons sargassum
Springtime each year currents push Atlantic sargassum west
Early 2024 Researchers note warmer sea temperatures regionally
Early 2024 Nutrients, sunlight spur sargassum growth
July 28 Reuters reports record seaweed inundation
July 28 Officials project 119,000 tons landing
July 28 Federal government prepares emergency response plan
July 28 Beach workers intensify daily seaweed removal

News Intelligence

If you're planning a vacation to Mexico's Caribbean coast, expect some changes. The sargassum invasion could affect beach access and the smell might be off-putting. Before booking, ask your hotel about their seaweed management plans.

The Bottom Line

The sargassum issue is not just a tourist inconvenience, it's an environmental concern. Warmer sea temperatures and nutrient-rich waters are fueling this growth. Keep an eye on how Mexico's emergency response unfolds. Worth forwarding if you know someone heading to Cancun, Playa del Carmen, or Tulum.