A yellow flag has been raised at Las Teresitas Beach in Santa Cruz de Tenerife after several Portuguese Man O' War were discovered on the shore. These sea creatures pack a sting that's more painful than your average jellyfish.
In addition to the yellow flag, a special purple flag for marine fauna is flying to alert everyone to the potential danger. In addition to this, the Red Cross is sending out a boat patrol to check for any more of these stingy visitors in the swimming areas to ensure the water is safe for the public.
With the Portuguese Man O' War making its presence felt in Spain this summer, it's important for everyone to stay alert and heed safety warnings. Enjoy the beach, but remember to keep an eye out for these oceanic interlopers to ensure a fun and safe day by the sea!
This isn't the first time the Canary Islands have encountered these unwelcome visitors. In a notable incident in the summer of 2023, a 6-year-old girl in San Sebastian, La Gomera was stung by a Portuguese Man O' War, leading to temporary beach closures and increased safety measures, and just recently several were sighted at La Pinta Beach in Costa Adeje.
Such experiences underline the importance of caution and awareness when these creatures are in the area, as their venomous tentacles can cause severe reactions.
