In response to the early arrival of Sargassum along the coast of Quintana Roo, authorities and locals organized the first major beach clearance of the season in Mahahual and successfully gathered 100 tons From the macro algae.
Oscar Rebora, secretary of Ecology and Environment (SEMA), confirmed that 2025 is expected to be a more serious Sargassum season than in 2024 – alarm among business owners, hoteliers and local residents.
“We already see the first signs of Sargassum washing in Mahahual,” said Rebora. “That is why we responded to requests from citizens, civil associations and local companies to organize this first brigade.”
First joint effort of the year
The clean -up operation brought around 200 participants together, including staff from SEMA, the Mexican Marine (Semar), the Environmental Protection Agency (PPA), the Biodiversity and Natural Ares Institute (Ibanqroo), as well as volunteers from different organizations.
State and federal strategies are now focusing on strengthening offshore interception measures to stop Sargassum before the coastlines reaches.
“The best approach is to contain the Sargassum before it arrives on the beaches,” explains a Navy representative. “To achieve this, we strengthen anchor systems, barriers and offshore collection equipment. The Navy currently has 11 specialized ships and we evaluate extra methods to increase the efficiency of the operation.”
Permanent clean -up brigades announced
Rebora also announced the formation of permanent clean-up brigades in Mahahual and other areas with a high impact to reduce the environmental and economic effects of algae blooms.
“We know that ocean currents can make Mahahual particularly vulnerable,” he said. “That is why we strengthen both municipal and federal brigades with temporary employment programs to constantly clean.”
This first clearance marks the start of a larger coordinated response. It is expected that more clean -up brigades will be used in the coming weeks as part of a proactive plan to protect the beaches of Quintana Roo during the 2025 season.
What to expect from the Sargassum season 2025
Early satellite monitoring and oceanographic data suggest that the Sargassum season 2025 could be one of the most challenging in recent years. Large pieces of the seaweed form in the Atlantic Ocean and are expected to float to the west, which will influence the Caribbean coastline in the coming months.
Environmental agencies and scientific institutions follow the oceaning temperatures and the current patterns closely, both of which influence the flowering and movement of Sargassum. Warmer waters and changing current dynamics have contributed to the expansion of the Sargassum -Riem in the Atlantic Ocean, known as the Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt.
Mahahual, located on the southern Caribbean coast of Quintana Roo, is one of the first affected destinations because of the geographical position. Local communities and stakeholders of tourism ask for continuous coordination and financing to manage the crisis.
“This is not just about aesthetics – Sargassum influences life at sea, public health and the local economy,” said a local hotel manager. “We appreciate these early efforts and hope that they will continue the entire season.”
The government of Quintana Roo has repeated its dedication to long-term solutions, including investments in offshore inclusion infrastructure, methods for sustainable removals and scientific research.
As the Sargassum season increases, both public and private sectors are encouraged to remain alert and to work together to maintain the ecological and economic vitality of the region.
