Sargassum Surge Hits Quintana Roo: What You Need to Know

Sargassum levels in Quintana Roo have escalated to a "moderate" level 4, following several weeks of minimal activity due to a limited influx of the macroalgae. The Mexican Navy, which monitors these levels, anticipates more patches of sargassum in the coming hours due to the prevailing southeast winds in the popular tourist destinations.

The alert level for the Mexican Caribbean region is currently categorized as "moderate" (CAT- 4), with an estimated algal coverage of around 12,680 tons to date, according to the Navy's report. The report, published on June 7, identifies the central and southern areas of Quintana Roo as the regions most susceptible to macroalgae influx. Conversely, the northern region, spanning from Puerto Morelos to Benito Juarez and Isla Mujeres, has a lower stranding level.

The trend chart indicates a sargassum surge beginning June 1, with an estimated 14,800 tons reaching the shores this month. The report states, "According to current metocean conditions, surface currents are estimated from Xcalak to Mahahual, with a north direction and speeds between 0.28 to 0.34m/s; from Sian Ka’an to Cancun, with a north direction and speeds between 0.48 and 1.06 m/s; finding wind conditions from the east of 07 to 15 knots."

Despite the increase, the situation has not yet reached the chaotic levels of previous years when the death of marine fauna, such as sea turtle hatchlings trapped in piles of algae, was reported.

In Playa del Carmen, particularly in the city center, the presence of the algae is more noticeable. The Federal Maritime Terrestrial Zone Directorate (Zofemat) staff are actively cleaning the main coastal sections, which continue to attract thousands of tourists.