How to check for red tide before going to the beach

(WFLA) – A red tide bloom is plaguing southwest Florida beaches. The bloom is killing thousands of fish and other sea life.

Experts with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission are tracking the situation.

The agency’s map (above) reports high to medium concentrations in Manatee and Sarasota as of Wednesday, Aug. 8.

There are lots of gray dots on Manatee and Pinellas County beaches. The gray indicates red tide is not present.

Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium also tracks beach conditions.

You’ll want to check those websites before planning your next trip to the beach:

• Florida Fish and Wildlife Red Tide Status Map
• Mote Marine Red Tide Beach Conditions Map

FWC also has provided these phone numbers to report various effects of red tide:

• Wildlife Alert Hotline: 888-404-FWCC
• Fish Kill Hotline: 800-636-0511