Sargassum Surge Hits Cancún Beaches: Cleanup Underway

Cancún, Mexico — Over the past five days, Cancún’s beaches have experienced an atypical surge of sargassum, particularly along the coastal stretch between Playa Delfines and the Iberostar Hotel, where authorities are removing more than 200 cubic meters of the seaweed daily. Antonio Chambé, Director of Municipal Public Services for Benito Juárez, confirmed the ongoing cleanup efforts.

Most Affected Beaches and Cleanup Operations

The beaches most impacted by the influx include Delfines, Marlín, Chac Mool, and Ballenas, with Playa Coral also experiencing consistent accumulations. Meanwhile, Gaviota Azul remains clear, while Playa del Niño, Perlas, and Langosta report minor deposits.

Chambé stated, “We are removing approximately 200 cubic meters daily, equivalent to 200 truckloads. This is a significant volume we haven’t seen in some time, except at Playa Coral, which has had persistent influxes.”

Cleanup operations begin at 5:30 a.m. and continue until dusk, around 7:00 p.m., to avoid disrupting sea turtle nesting activities. Workers use mechanical sweepers and manually collect the seaweed with plastic crates.

Weather Conditions and Coordination Efforts

Unfavorable weather conditions, including a lack of rain, wind, or shifting ocean currents, have hindered natural dispersal. Chambé noted, “The goal is to eliminate large sargassum patches by Thursday. We made significant progress yesterday, but the currents need to change.”

Multiple municipal agencies are involved, including Public Services, Municipal Heritage, Civil Protection, Firefighters, and the Directorate of Regularization. Due to high temperatures, workers rotate in 40-minute shifts to prevent heat-related illnesses.

Tourism Impact and Hotel Support

Authorities are collaborating with hotels to remove sargassum from both the shoreline and the water, ensuring beaches remain in optimal condition for tourists. The strategy aims to mitigate disruptions to Cancún’s vital tourism industry.

The recent influx follows reports of sargassum affecting reservations in Playa del Carmen, underscoring the broader regional challenge posed by the seaweed.