Portuguese man o' war washing up on UK beaches

Updated
Portuguese man of war Elliott Key Biscayne National Park Floirda
Portuguese man of war Elliott Key Biscayne National Park Floirda



Potentially deadly jellyfish-like Portuguese man o' war have washed up on beaches across the UK.

SEE ALSO: Boy stung by deadly tropical creature on beach in Cornwall

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The creatures have been seen in a number of places in Wales between Ceredigion and the Vale of Glamorgan, with the most recent sighting on Ogmore beach, WalesOnline reports.

Metro reports that there have also been sighting on the south coast of England on beaches in Shoreham, Worthing and Chichester in West Sussex.

The UK Coastguard has received multiple reports of Portuguese man o' war washing up on the Dorset and Devon coast. The jellyfish have been reported at Dawlish, Lyme, Charmouth, Bournemouth, Swanage, Seaton, Hove and Portsmouth.



Experts believe the recent hurricanes could be contributing to their arrival on UK shores.

A Sea Trust Wales spokesperson told the Daily Post that more could be on their way on Monday and Tuesday as strong winds are forecast.

Beachgoers have been warned not to touch the creatures and dog owners should keep their pets away.

Aimee Rampton, Duty Controller for the UK Coastguard, said on Sunday: "We are aware of these sightings after receiving multiple reports from members of the public yesterday and today.

"Until an accurate identification is made, members of the public are advised to keep away from these jellyfish and report any sighting to their local council.

"The Coastguard has also advised the local councils of these recent sightings. Stings from Portuguese Man o' war can be very painful and potentially harmful to humans and dogs alike."

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