We already know what you’re thinking - this headline is practically ripped straight from a Stephen King novel, right?  Unfortunately, it’s more than just attention-grabbing, it’s also absolutely true! Beaches in Florida are no strangers to having seaweed wash ashore, but there is a giant blob of sargassum seaweed heading to Florida that is practically a science fiction movie all its own. This is one of those Florida wonders that may not draw people to Florida on its own, but it's certainly interesting.

Take a look at all you need to know about this seaweed blob heading to Florida. Sargassum seaweed in Florida is a big problem and you're going to want to know where exactly it's headed. We all love swimming in the ocean, but no one wants to get caught up in a blob of smelly seaweed! (Scroll to the bottom for current updates.)

What Is Sargassum And Why Is It Heading To Florida?

Sargassum seaweed is a type of rootless algae that bunches up on islands and floats up around the ocean. Patches of sargassum seaweed have been spotted in the Atlantic Ocean for centuries, but since 2011, a 5,000-mile-long belt of the seaweed has circulated annually between the Gulf of Mexico and the mid-Atlantic. The density of that belt's clusters keeps increasing, possibly because modern agriculture techniques are sending more and more nutrients downstream and into the ocean. Here's more information on this massive blob of seaweed:

There is a 5,000-mile-wide blob of sargassum seaweed in the Atlantic Ocean right now that is set to reach the shoreline of Florida within just a few months.

Sargassum seaweed isn’t a new phenomenon by any means - this type of seaweed usually crops up on Florida coastlines, especially in the southern parts of the state.

However, the blooms keep getting bigger each time, with this mass of seaweed potentially breaking records in terms of size! This mass is estimated to be 6.1 million tons.

What are the dangers of this giant seaweed blob?

The seaweed blob poses a nearly catastrophic threat to tourism for both Florida and the Caribbean coasts.

Not only is this giant mass of sargassum a threat to your summer plans but it is also said to retain an odor somewhat similar to rotten eggs.

More often than not, sargassum is harmless. However, there are a few things to be wary of, outside of the smell and the unappealing visuals. This seaweed can harbor jellyfish, sea lice, and other sea life that could bite or sting.

Because it rots quickly under the hot Florida sun, the smell could drive away any and all tourists. Plus, with the release of hydrogen sulfide, health issues could reside for those who already have chronic respiratory issues.

Where exactly in Florida is the seaweed blob headed?

Curious about where to expect the giant seaweed blob? Read on:

Unfortunately for places like Miami Beach and West Palm Beach, they will get the brunt of the seaweed blob making landfall because of the closer proximity to the Gulf Stream.

Are there any pictures or videos of the seaweed blob?

Absolutely. The 5,000 blob of smelly seaweed has certainly made waves and headlines...

Below you'll find both photos and video coverage of the seaweed blob, c/o Queen City News:

What's the latest status of the seaweed blob?

Curious about updates on the latest status of the seaweed blob? Brevard County is already seeing increased seaweed along the shore, with the worst to come in June and July.

Up to 13 million tons of seaweed could soil our coast this summer.  Sargassum seaweed season runs from March to October.

Why is there more sargassum seaweed this year than in past years? Fertilizers and wastewater have increased the levels of nitrogen and phosphorus in the ocean. These nutrients are feeding the seaweed at a startling rate.

The Florida Keys are already being affected, with recent deposits along Cocoplum Beach in Marathon.

Also, if you need a reason as to why you should visit Miami Beach this summer, take a look at this giant mosaic pool where you can dine waterside.

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