Red Tide Origin Research

By: Meteorologist Ray Hawthorne Email

Posted: Mon 2:19 PM, Nov 12, 2007

A new study may answer why Florida's Gulf Coast experiences harmful Red Tides.

A computer model simulation suggests that nutrients coming from the Mississippi River are helping algae grow offshore. NOAA scientists say fewer nutrients than previously thought are needed to start the Red Tide. The direct economic effects account for an estimated 75-million dollars annually, including public health costs, commercial fishing closures, and recreation and tourism losses. Prevailing winds bring nutrients toward Florida, usually during the early summer months.

Statewide Hurricane Exercise Begins