Toxic algae bloom spreads across Yucatán state

struggle foreseen by Sisal fishermen's representative in fishing activities, predicted to negatively impact local economy

, and ASMedia

2025 September 2 . 3:40 AM

2 min read

Toxic algae bloom expands across Yucatán state

Toxic algae bloom spreads across Yucatán state

A toxic algal bloom, known as red tide, has been causing significant disruptions in the coastal town of Sisal, Yucatan, between Progreso and Celestún, since August 2025. The red tide has led to a complete fishing ban, public health warnings, and advisories against swimming and consuming local seafood, impacting the local fishing and tourism sectors.

Authorities have implemented a daily flag system (green, yellow, red) to indicate the risk levels of red tide, protecting swimmers and informing about seafood safety. However, the impact on fishing remains severe due to the ban. The persistence of the bloom depends on environmental factors like currents, wind, and sea temperature, making predictions uncertain.

The fishing ban directly affects Sisal’s fishing sector, withholding local catch from markets and threatening the economic stability of fishers. Tourism is also affected by warnings against swimming and seafood consumption, reducing visitor numbers in this coastal area known for its waters and marine-related activities. Authorities have issued health alerts urging precaution to avoid exposure.

Initially, there was some controversy or delay in acknowledging the red tide’s presence. Scientific institutions like CINVESTAV initially contradicted local health authorities before the bloom was officially confirmed and alerts issued.

Despite the challenges, some businesses in the area have implemented safety measures to ensure the quality of their food, and consuming fish and seafood in formal restaurants is safe. Service providers in the tourism sector, particularly those offering tours along the river, have indicated that activities will not be suspended this weekend.

The red tide has started affecting some ports in Yucatan and has advanced along the coast, reaching the Magical Town of Sisal. The fishing sector of Sisal depends on around a thousand families, and a representative of the fishermen of Sisal, Luis Ek Sosa, has called on state authorities for support.

The red tide does not affect the mangrove area or the eyes of water in Sisal. However, the sea in Sisal has turned turbid, and dead fish have appeared on the beach. The red tide is expected to affect the economy of the coastal zone of Sisal.

In summary, the red tide in the Sisal area is ongoing with mandated fishing bans, health alerts, and tourist precautions, causing significant socio-economic challenges. Continued monitoring and flag warnings aim to manage the risks while the bloom’s duration remains uncertain.