If you are looking for a peaceful vacation, beach destinations are often a perfect choice, and Thailand is one of them. However, nature can be unpredictable, and marine alerts or wildlife sightings sometimes lead to temporary restrictions. In Thailand, swimming has now been banned at some popular tourist spots, including the Phi Phi Islands because of venomous Portuguese man-of-war. Read on to know more.
Where Was Venomous Portuguese Man-Of-War Spotted In Thailand?
Krabi in Thailand is facing a tense situation as the highly venomous Portuguese man-of-war was spotted. So, now authorities have banned swimming at several beaches. As per News18, in Krabi, the swimming is banned at Mu Ko Lanta National Park and Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park.
On June 5, officials first spotted the Portuguese man-of-war at Laem Tanod Beach in Mu Ko Lanta National Park. They were spotted during a routine check. Later that same day, more of these creatures were also seen near Phi Phi Don Island, especially around Ao Ling and Sam Hat beaches. After these sightings, park authorities immediately raised red flags and stopped swimming in those areas to keep visitors safe.
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How This Creature Can Affect Us?
The venomous Portuguese man-of-war looks a lot similar to jellyfish, but it is actually a siphonophore. News18 reported that it floats on the water using a blue or purple gas-filled sac and has long tentacles that can stretch several metres. Its sting can cause pain, rashes, swelling, and other health issues. Even dead ones can be harmful.
To ensure safety, authorities have deployed lifeguards and special teams to monitor the beaches all the time. The ban on swimming at Thailand tourist spots will continue until the situation improves and these creatures are no longer found.
Make sure you follow the guidelines if you’re visiting Thailand!
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ Balate Dorin
FAQs
Why Krabi banned swimming at some beaches?
Krabi has banned swimming at some beaches after sightings of the highly venomous Portuguese man-of-war.
Why Portuguese man-of-war are dangerous?
The Portuguese man-of-war is dangerous because its venom-filled tentacles can cause intense pain, skin reactions, and other serious health problems on contact.
Where was Portuguese man-of-war were spotted in Thailand?
The Portuguese man-of-war was spotted at Laem Tanod Beach in Mu Ko Lanta National Park and near Phi Phi Don Island in areas like Ao Ling and Sam Hat beaches.