95 Quintana Roo Beaches Hit by Sargassum Influx

Quintana Roo, Mexico — The persistent influx of sargassum seaweed continues to plague the beaches of Quintana Roo, with 95 shorelines in the northern zone reporting the presence of the macroalgae, according to the latest update from the Quintana Roo Sargassum Monitoring Network.

Severe Impact on Coastal Areas

Of the 100 coastal sites monitored, 25 exhibited excessive levels of sargassum, while 30 were classified as having abundant amounts and 15 as moderate. Only five beaches—Isla Contoy, Cabo Catoche, Punta Mosquito, Holbox ferry, and Chiquilá—remained free of the seaweed.

Notable affected areas include Playa Gaviota Azul, commonly known as "Forum," where the seaweed covered large sections of the shoreline, forcing beachgoers to congregate near rocky areas. Other heavily impacted locations include El Recodo, Coral, Punta Piedra, and Puerto Morelos Norte.

Weather Conditions Worsen the Problem

The current sargassum surge has been driven by strong easterly-southeasterly winds, with speeds between 20 and 30 kilometers per hour (km/h). These winds, combined with waves reaching up to one meter in height, have fragmented and dispersed the seaweed rapidly, complicating manual cleanup efforts.

Cancún, Isla Mujeres, Playa del Carmen, Cozumel, Tulum, and other Riviera Maya destinations have borne the brunt of the influx. Beaches such as Punta Esmeralda, Mamitas, and Xcacel have seen thick barriers of decomposing algae, affecting not only the scenery but also water quality and air conditions due to the odor.

Tourism and Cleanup Challenges

Local authorities have intensified cleanup operations, but the sheer volume of sargassum has overwhelmed their capacity. In many areas, the seaweed accumulates overnight, requiring daily removal efforts that struggle to keep pace.

Tourism operators and visitors have expressed frustration over the prolonged situation, which has deterred some travelers. Hotels and beach clubs, reliant on pristine shorelines, face growing difficulties in maintaining guest satisfaction.

Ongoing Monitoring and Response

The Quintana Roo Sargassum Monitoring Network continues to track the situation, with updates indicating no immediate relief. Municipal crews remain active in cleanup efforts, but the cyclical nature of the seaweed’s arrival poses an ongoing challenge.

The environmental and economic repercussions of the sargassum invasion remain a pressing concern for the region, with no clear resolution in sight.