SC warns of Portuguese Man O’ War sightings on beaches (Spottings on Sullivan’s Island and Hilton Head)
CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) – South Carolina is warning beachgoers to beware after a small number of Portuguese Man O’ War has been sighted.
News outlets report the state Department of Natural Resources say people should avoid making contact with the highly venomous creatures – even if they’re dead. Experts say a dead Man O’ War can create a sting strong enough to require medical attention.
Authorities say the sting to humans is excruciatingly painful but rarely deadly.
The creatures, which are marine hydrozoans and relatives of jellyfish, have recently been spotted on Sullivan’s Island and in Hilton Head.
The DNR says the man o’ wars are pushed ashore by strong winds and have recently washed onto beaches from Florida to North Carolina.
Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed
Charleston Daily
Charleston Daily is a concept in community. Its mission is to promote, assist, and celebrate in everything Charleston, South Carolina. By partnering with businesses, community leaders, volunteers and events, we are spreading the love that is Charleston. As this city continues to grow and prosper, we want to help spread the message to all about how wonderful this community is. Charleston is about the people, community, water, land, history, heritage and the true southern warmth it brings with each and every day.