The coastline of Var is facing, this Thursday, August 22, a particularly concerning marine phenomenon: the invasion of jellyfish. With their presence reported on about fifteen beaches, from La Seyne to the Estérel, these creatures, particularly the Pelagia noctiluca, use their almost invisible filaments to trap swimmers. While other departments, such as Bouches du Rhône and Alpes Maritimes, seem spared, it is crucial to inform oneself about the most affected areas and to exercise caution when swimming.
This Thursday, August 22, the Mediterranean Sea has reserved an unexpected surprise for swimmers in Var: the presence of jellyfish on many beaches, from La Seyne to the Estérel. While the neighboring beaches of Bouches du Rhône and Alpes Maritimes seem free of these creatures, Var finds itself at the heart of the invasion. Reports of about fifteen updated beaches testify to this marine phenomenon of which swimmers must be informed for their safety and comfort.
Types of jellyfish involved
Among the marine creatures responsible for this situation, it is the Pelagia noctiluca that stands out, recognizable by its purple color. These jellyfish possess almost invisible filaments, which can reach several dozen centimeters in length, that are particularly stinging. An inattentive swim can lead to notable discomfort, and it is essential to remain attentive to their presence in the water.
Affected beaches in Var
Concise reports have identified several beaches where jellyfish have been spotted, making swimming potentially dangerous in certain areas. The municipalities have reported the presence of jellyfish on about fifteen beaches, so swimmers are urged to be careful and informed before diving into the waters of Var.
Weather conditions and jellyfish appearance
It should be noted that ocean currents, particularly the Ligurian current, as well as weather conditions, influence the arrival of these jellyfish on our coasts. The wind, and more specifically the upwelling phenomenon caused by the mistral, could be a significant factor in the recent appearance of jellyfish. These cold water currents bring new populations of jellyfish to the beaches, thereby doubling the risk of unpleasant encounters with these creatures during swimming.
Alert zones and swimmer safety
A package of precautions, a collaborative tool has been established to monitor in real-time the presence of jellyfish along the coast. Thanks to cooperation between partner municipalities and the active participation of swimmers, it is now possible to identify at-risk beaches and areas where swimming can remain safe. The beaches located between La Ciotat and Sanary, as well as some areas around Fos-sur-Mer, show an absence of jellyfish, offering an alternative for swimmers in search of serenity.
Reminders to swimmers
To enjoy the pleasures of swimming calmly, it is crucial to stay informed about the conditions of the day. In the event of swimming reported with the presence of jellyfish, it is recommended to be cautious and vigilant. It is also noted that isolated cases of jellyfish appear here and there, so it is appropriate to remain attentive without succumbing to panic.
Conclusion on the jellyfish situation in Var
As summer comes to an end, jellyfish remind swimmers that they are an integral part of the marine ecosystem. Their presence, although sometimes uncomfortable, contributes to the natural functioning of our coasts. It is essential to report any encounters with these creatures to better prepare for the days to come and ensure the safety of all swimmers on the beaches of Var.
Jellyfish: Affected beaches in Var (August 22)
- Affected localities
- From La Seyne
- Estérel
- La Ciotat
- Saint Mandrier
- Hyères
- From La Seyne
- Estérel
- La Ciotat
- Saint Mandrier
- Hyères
- Type of jellyfish
- Pelagia noctiluca
- Pelagia noctiluca
- Areas with reports
- Sablettes
- Mourillon
- Beaches of Hyères
- Islands of Hyères
- Giens Peninsula
- Sablettes
- Mourillon
- Beaches of Hyères
- Islands of Hyères
- Giens Peninsula
- Beaches without jellyfish
- Fos-Sur-Mer – La Grande Plage
- La Ciotat – Plage Cyrnos
- Le Lavandou – Plage de Saint-Clair
- Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer – Plage de la Madrague
- Sanary-sur-Mer – Plage de Portissol
- Fos-Sur-Mer – La Grande Plage
- La Ciotat – Plage Cyrnos
- Le Lavandou – Plage de Saint-Clair
- Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer – Plage de la Madrague
- Sanary-sur-Mer – Plage de Portissol
- From La Seyne
- Estérel
- La Ciotat
- Saint Mandrier
- Hyères
- Pelagia noctiluca
- Sablettes
- Mourillon
- Beaches of Hyères
- Islands of Hyères
- Giens Peninsula
- Fos-Sur-Mer – La Grande Plage
- La Ciotat – Plage Cyrnos
- Le Lavandou – Plage de Saint-Clair
- Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer – Plage de la Madrague
- Sanary-sur-Mer – Plage de Portissol
