Hilton Head Island, SC, September 6, 2025

News Summary

Clumps of sargassum, a type of brown algae, have washed ashore on Hilton Head Island, marking record levels of blooms this year. The alarming increase, attributed to climate change and pollution, poses economic risks and environmental concerns for local communities. Experts emphasize the need for effective management strategies as health risks associated with decomposing sargassum become apparent. Innovative solutions are being explored to address this growing issue.

Hilton Head Island Faces Record-Breaking Sargassum Blooms

Recent reports indicate that clumps of sargassum, a type of brown algae, have washed ashore on Hilton Head Island. This is a concerning development for local communities and ecosystems, as the size of sargassum blooms has reached record levels in 2023, surpassing 31 million tons. This figure represents a staggering 40% increase over the previous year, indicating an alarming trend driven largely by climate change and pollution.

Sargassum plays a vital role in ocean ecosystems, providing food, habitat, and breeding grounds for various marine species. These floating mats of algae contain gas-filled structures known as pneumatocysts, which enable them to stay buoyant in the open sea. However, when washed ashore, sargassum can create significant problems for coastal communities. The algae’s decomposition can produce hydrogen sulfide gas, leading to unpleasant odors similar to rotten eggs. This odor can be particularly problematic for individuals with respiratory issues. While recent sightings of sargassum on Hilton Head did not result in foul smells, the potential for such occurrences remains.

The deposition of sargassum on Hilton Head’s beaches is considered unusual, as significant blooms have historically been rare in the area. The last major spike was recorded in 2011 when unprecedented amounts of sargassum accumulated. In recent years, the algae has expanded its geographical reach, moving from the Sargasso Sea to the formation of the Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt, which stretches for thousands of miles and weighs millions of pounds.

The increase in sargassum is attributed to a combination of factors, including rising ocean temperatures and elevated nitrogen levels from fertilizers and agricultural runoff. As a result, communities dependent on tourism face serious economic risks, as sargassum can affect the aesthetics and health of their beaches and local wildlife.

In addition to economic impacts, excessive sargassum can lead to negative environmental consequences. For example, the algae can obstruct sunlight from reaching marine life, contributing to die-offs among fish and other species. Moreover, the blooms can harbor Vibrio bacteria, which poses health risks to humans, including potential flesh-eating infections. Health advisories recommend that individuals avoid direct contact with stagnant pools of water containing sargassum, particularly if they have open wounds.

As sargassum blooms become more prevalent, researchers are exploring potential beneficial uses for the algae. Ideas include developing biofuels and biodegradable materials to reduce plastic pollution. Innovative solutions, such as robotic harvesting and methods to sequester carbon by sinking sargassum, are also under consideration.

Efforts to manage sargassum blooms have become imperative. Experts are calling for increased investment in mitigation strategies and financial models to address the effects of these blooms on coastal communities. The situation underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to tackle the multifaceted challenges posed by sargassum and associated health risks, especially given the projected continuation of climate change and its repercussions.

Key Statistics on Sargassum Blooms

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Additional Resources

• Island Packet: Hilton Head Island Faces Record-Breaking Sargassum Blooms
• Wikipedia: Sargassum
• CNN: Seaweed Bloom in Florida
• Google Search: Sargassum Bloom
• The Guardian: Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt
• Google Scholar: Sargassum Health Risks
• AP News: Record Sargassum in the Caribbean
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Sargassum
• Sport Fishing Mag: Sargassum and Mahi
• Google News: Sargassum Blooms 2023

Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD

The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.