Enormous sargassum influx in the Caribbean affects coastal regions

Paris – 20.06.2026: In the Caribbean, extraordinarily heavy influxes of sargassum seaweed continue, affecting both the environment and the population. The brown algae, which have increasingly colonized the Atlantic since the beginning of the 21st century, have reached record quantities in recent months and are increasingly affecting coastal areas.

Satellite data from May 2026 show the highest concentrations of sargassum biomass to date, particularly in the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. The season for these algae usually extends from May to August, with a peak expected during the summer months of June and July. Experts therefore predict further increases in the coming weeks.

The French Caribbean region is particularly affected. On the island of La Désirade, off Guadeloupe, the masses of algae accumulate to such an extent that they significantly worsen air quality and cause health problems among the population. Likewise, the beaches of Diamant in Martinique are covered by a thick layer of sargassum, making their use as recreational areas difficult.

The main causes of the increased spread of sargassum are multifactorial. They originate off the west coast of Africa and reach the Caribbean through ocean currents. In addition, increased nutrients, especially from the Amazon basin, promote the rapid growth and massive proliferation of these algae.

The decomposition of sargassum biomass on beaches releases hydrogen sulfide, a toxic gas that can cause serious health problems, particularly in people with respiratory difficulties. The environment also suffers: the dense layer of algae threatens coastal ecosystems and has a negative impact on the local economy, especially tourism, which is an important source of income for the islands.

To mitigate the consequences of this seaweed influx, the affected areas are implementing various measures. These include the mechanical removal of algae from beaches, the installation of floating barriers to reduce their arrival, and initiatives for the sustainable use of the algae masses, such as organic fertilizer or an energy source.

Despite these actions, the situation remains critical. Scientists and regional authorities emphasize the urgency of international cooperation to develop effective strategies that enable long-term control of sargassum influxes. Only through joint efforts can environmental protection be ensured and the quality of life of the affected population improved.

The current situation shows how complex environmental changes resulting from human activities and climatic factors are. The sargassum problem requires globally coordinated sustainable solutions to minimize its negative impacts on the Caribbean region in the long term.