Fl., Nassau Co. Comm. declared a state of emergency - red tide

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http://hisz.rsoe.hu/alertmap/woalert_read.php?cid=13558&cat=dis&lang=eng


Nassau County Commissioners declared a state of emergency Friday morning after meeting to discuss the red tide affecting beaches from Amelia Island south into Duval and St. Johns counties. Efforts are focused on removing dead sea life resulting from the red tide, as well as piles of lumber that washed up following a recent nor'easter. At the same time, Nassau County Emergency Management issued a coastal flood watch advisory for the weekend due to a strong nor'easter expected to develop overnight Friday in conjunction with spring tides. "It is expected these features will combine and bring potential minor to moderate coastal flooding, high surf and significant beach erosion along the Northeast Florida coastline this weekend into early next week," the advisory stated. "A gradual increase in winds will begin Saturday afternoon and extend through Monday." Dangerous rip currents were forecast, but it was unknown how the storm would affect the red tide scourge. Ahead of the storm, more than 10 work trucks were lined up at Peters Point beach access at noon Friday, ready to haul trash to the West Nassau Landfill collected by workers wearing HEPA masks and orange vests. "Safety and clean-up" are imperative, said Commissioner Jim B. Higginbotham. The commission also issued health alerts to area resorts for their guests and posted red flags at lifeguard stations warning beachgoers to avoid the water. However, beach access is not restricted. Boating and fishing are considered safe, but eating bivalve shellfish such as oysters and clams is not.

The most common side effect of red tide in humans is respiratory illness, so those with pre-existing health issues such as emphysema or asthma are advised to avoid the beach until further notice. Skin irritation has not been documented, but the public is warned to maintain its distance from decomposing marine life as it can house bacteria and toxins, and to wear proper foot attire to prevent puncture wounds on the feet. Anyone who spots a dead sea mammal is asked to contact authorities such as the Nassau County Health Department at 277-7278. The red tide was first suspected Tuesday and confirmed Wednesday. It is unknown how long it could affect the shores of Nassau County. According to county officials, the ocean here last tested positive for red tide in 2002, but concentrations were not severe.)
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Florida beach life ain't what it used to be