Swarms of Jellyfish Causing a “Sting” to Ocean City Swimmers

OCEAN CITY, Md. – Mid-August brings warm weather and an influx of visitors to the beaches of Ocean City. But excited beach-goers aren’t the only ones flocking to Atlantic coast, Swarms of jellyfish, enjoy the waters too.

Beach-goers such as Julia Caldarella, are feeling the sting.

“We are leaving early.” Said Caldarella. “My family’s all over there. My legs hurt. I’m itchy. It’s all over. It hurts.”

Sea Nettles are local to Atlantic Ocean, as the water starts to get warmer in the late summer, their presence in the area increases.

But some long time visitors, such as Penny Monty-Carbonari, say this is the highest amount of jellyfish they’ve ever seen in the area.

“We’ve been coming here for about 38 years.” Said Monty-Carbonari. “I’ve never seen the water like this. I mean, people are going in a few at a time, but I think they just don’t know, because we tried this morning and my son got stung a bunch of times. Everyone around us got stung.”

Experts recommend wearing a rash guard, or avoiding the water completely. If you or someone you know gets stung, flush the area out with salt water, and remove any visible tentacles. According to the Ocean City Fire Department Community Engagement Officer, Ryan Whittington, most stings are mild, and do not need medical attention.

“Where we do want to take you to the hospital should you experience respiratory distress, chest discomfort, or what we call a severe allergic reaction, which includes that difficulty breathing and things like that.” Said Whittington. “Otherwise, if you don’t have that, it’s what we’re going to consider a minor jellyfish sting.”

As tides and water temperatures change, the amounts of jellyfish will also fluctuate.