Record sargassum surge threatens Caribbean coasts

Santo Domingo.- Sargassum levels in the Atlantic have reached a record-breaking 31 million tons, surpassing the previous high of 24 million, raising serious concerns among Caribbean scientists and coastal communities. Oceanographer Elena Martínez Martínez, co-founder of SOS Biotech, explained that this seaweed is now concentrated in a massive region called the Sargassum Belt, which stretches about 9,000 kilometers—nearly seven times the size of Spain. This area has expanded rapidly over the past five years.

Martínez noted that ocean currents are pushing the sargassum toward the Caribbean, intensifying its impact on the region. The phenomenon’s growth is linked to multiple factors, including rising ocean temperatures, increased atmospheric CO₂, and nutrient runoff from agricultural fertilizers. She also pointed out that Saharan dust, rich in micronutrients like iron, contributes to the problem.

Despite growing concerns, predicting the spread of sargassum remains difficult. Martínez admitted that current forecasting tools are inadequate and that sargassum has reached areas previously thought to be unaffected. For now, the main method of monitoring involves coastal sightings and emergency collection efforts to prevent it from damaging beaches.