MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — The National Weather Service is warning beachgoers about several sightings of Portuguese Man o’ War along South Carolina and North Carolina shores.
The NWS said lifeguards reported the jellyfish in the Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach areas as well as the Wrightsville Beach areas.
The NWS said one jellyfish that washed up on North Myrtle reportedly had tentacles measuring 16 feet long.
The creatures are marine hydrozoans and relatives of jellyfish.
Fun fact: We just learned that these 16-foot tentacles are actually on the short side. Adult man o' war tentacles are usually around 30 feet long. So yeah, please don't mess with these. Stay safe! https://t.co/3R9PO503LZ
— NWS Wilmington NC (@NWSWilmingtonNC) May 28, 2020
The state Department of Natural Resources said people should avoid making contact with the highly venomous creatures, even if they’re dead. Experts say a dead Man O’ War can create a sting strong enough to require medical attention.
Authorities say the sting to humans is excruciatingly painful but rarely deadly.
The creatures have a bright blue “float” that should be easy to spot.
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