Blooms of red jellyfish spotted in Koh Phi Phi

Officials issued a warning to tourists about swimming at Phi Phi National Park after Blooms of ‘red jellyfish’ spotted off the coast of Krabi. Marine expert from the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) said they are not certain exactly what species of jellyfish within the Pelagiidae family they are, yet, based on the photographs, especially with regards to their tentacles, it would be best to avoid them.
Noppharat Thara – Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park Chief Chaiya Chaikham was quoted saying, regarding the warning: “We spotted the blooms off Koh Mai Pai [Bamboo Island]. This is a very normal thing this time of year. They should be gone within a week.” Mr Chaiya was also unable to specifically identify the jellyfish beyond the local name for them, which translates to ‘red jellyfish’. As far as they know, they are venomous, but their stings are not lethal.”
Should anyone get stung by these jellyfish, the pain can be relieved by pouring vinegar on the wound, though some people may experience allergic reactions to the stings. The National Park has deployed medical teams on standby.