WILLEMSTAD - Portuguese Man-of-War have been spotted near the beaches of Grote Knip and Kleine Knip, the Ministry of Health, Environment, and Nature (GMN) has announced.
Several beachgoers have come into contact with these jellyfish-like creatures, resulting in injuries, with some even requiring hospitalization. Visitors to the beaches are advised to exercise extra caution. The warning applies to all beaches along the south coast, not just those in Bandabou.
According to the ministry, it is not uncommon to see Portuguese Man-of-War along the coast. These sea creatures can be driven to the shore due to changes in wind direction or ocean currents.
The sea creatures are easily recognizable by their shape, resembling an inflated, purple plastic bag about 25 centimeters long, floating on the water. "If you see one, keep your distance and do not try to remove it from the water. The tentacles underwater can be over 30 meters long," the GMN ministry advised.