Record seaweed invasion leaves beachgoers gagging as fumes raise health fears

A record amount of sargassum seaweed has been washing ashore across South Florida, frustrating beachgoers and creating a growing challenge for coastal communities.

Researchers estimate that at least 4% of the ocean's surface is covered by floating mats and clusters of seaweed, with levels expected to increase further throughout June.

While the seaweed itself can be unsightly, many residents say the odor it produces is an even bigger problem.

As sargassum decomposes, it releases hydrogen sulfide gas, creating a smell often compared to rotten eggs, according to the Florida Department of Health.

Residents who have discussed the issue online described the smell as one of the most unpleasant aspects of the ongoing seaweed buildup.

"The smell is so noxious where I live from all the decomposing sargassum," one Reddit user wrote. 

"It's really bad."

Others said the odor has become so recognizable that even photos of the seaweed trigger memories of it.

"I can literally SMELL these photos," another commenter wrote.

"I was at the beach today, and honestly it was annoying," the commenter wrote. "You can't enjoy the water."

Images shared online showed thick bands of seaweed stretching across portions of the shoreline.

"Pictures don't really do it justice," one Reddit user wrote. "You had to walk through what felt like a foot of seaweed just to reach the water."

"A newly established population, driven by shifting wind patterns, is now thriving in the open ocean," the service says.