One of three online Gulf of Mexico harmful algal bloom products now available to the public, the respiratory irritation forecast displays conditions at individual beaches over the next 30 hours. It is updated every three hours with any new information and supported by volunteer citizen scientists. Respiratory irritation risk is indicated by the color of the pins: blue (absent or low risk), yellow (low risk), orange (moderate risk), and red (high risk).
NOAA’s newly enhanced HAB forecasts are now available to the public in real time. The forecasts are higher resolution, providing hourly observations at the individual beach level. Analysis of "red tide" algal bloom locations and reported impacts are now automated, and reports include forecasts of potential development, intensification, transport, and impacts of algal blooms.
Continue reading at National Ocean Service
Image via National Ocean Service