Louisiana Parents Warned About Danger Showing Up on Gulf Coast Beaches

(KTDY) - Soon, many from Acadiana will be hitting the beaches to cool down, but there's something showing up on popular beaches that can be a danger to you or your kids.

Like many of you, anytime I see something out of the ordinary on the beach, I feel the need to explore it and see what it is. However, if you see what we are about to share below, you and your kids should avoid it and retreat.

Many things wash up on the shores of beaches along the Gulf Coast, and while some things may be beautiful, like seashells, you certainly do not want to pick up the Portuguese Man o’ War.

Yes, they may be colorful and attractive, but you do not want to touch this marine hyrdozoan. Like a jellyfish, they can sting you, and they can most certainly ruin any day at the beach, which we don't want to happen.

While attractive, the Portuguese Man o’ War is venomous, and it can have tentacles that reach up to 30 feet long! Now, these are showing up along beaches in Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida.

So, if you're going to the beach soon, you need to be aware of these and keep an eye out for them. If you have kids, it's probably best to show them the photo below so they are aware of what could harm them while enjoying the sun and water at your favorite beach destination.

Here's a look at what you DO NOT want to touch while your feet are in the sand.

For more on the Portuguese Man o’ War, check out this quick tutorial below.

What is a Portuguese Man O'War?