By Zoila Palma: Mexico is racing to clear a record surge of sargassum from its Caribbean beaches as massive quantities of the foul-smelling seaweed wash ashore along the country’s popular tourism belt.
Authorities in Quintana Roo, home to destinations such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum, have collected more than 105,000 metric tons of sargassum so far this year.
The amount has already surpassed the previous annual record of 92,783 tons recorded in 2025, Reuters report.
The latest figures also exceed earlier projections that approximately 119,000 tons could reach Quintana Roo’s shores in 2026, raising concerns that this could become one of the worst sargassum seasons on record.
Scientists attribute the unusually large blooms to a combination of nutrient-rich runoff, including nitrogen and phosphorus linked to agricultural activity, and changing ocean conditions.
As the seaweed accumulates and decomposes on beaches, it can release hydrogen sulfide gas, creating a strong odor and potentially irritating the respiratory system, while also threatening the appeal of beaches that are central to the region’s tourism industry.
Quintana Roo Environment Minister Oscar Rebora said the sargassum season could continue into early or mid-October, depending on winds, currents and tides.
The post International News: Mexico battles record Sargassum surge along Caribbean coast appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Zoila Palma: Mexico is racing to clear a record surge of sargassum from its Caribbean beaches as massive quantities of the foul-smelling seaweed wash ashore along the country’s popular tourism belt. Authorities in Quintana Roo, home to destinations such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum, have collected more than 105,000 metric tons of
The post International News: Mexico battles record Sargassum surge along Caribbean coast appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
