Seasonal Sargassum Seaweed Reaches Coastal Areas CPS Urges Community to Take Health Precautions
Tue May 27, 2025
Large mats of Sargassum seaweed have invaded several coastal areas over the past week.
This brown seaweed floats across temperate and tropical oceans.
Over recent years, it has appeared more frequently and spread more widely in the Caribbean.
When Sargassum reaches the shore, it starts to rot.
As it decomposes, it releases hydrogen sulphide gas.
This gas has no color, but it is toxic and highly flammable.
It also produces a foul smell, often compared to rotten eggs.
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Because of this, exposure to the gas can trigger a variety of symptoms.
These include irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat.
People may also experience headaches, nausea, dizziness, and breathing problems.
Those with asthma or respiratory issues face greater risks.
In fact, the elderly, children, pregnant women, and individuals with existing health conditions remain the most vulnerable.
Due to these risks, the Collective Prevention Services (CPS) of Sint Maarten advises
coastal residents to keep windows and doors closed.
Doing so can reduce the amount of gas entering homes.
Furthermore, CPS recommends minimizing time spent on beaches with heavy Sargassum buildup.
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If cleaning the seaweed, wear gloves, masks, and sturdy footwear.
Swimmers should also avoid waters near large piles of rotting seaweed.
Pets, particularly dogs, can react negatively to inhaling hydrogen sulphide.
Therefore, it’s best to keep animals away from these areas.
If you notice symptoms or have medical concerns, please consult a healthcare provider.
Stay informed.
Take precautions. Protect your health.—