Toxic algae, known as the Red Tide, has been wreaking havoc along the Florida coastline for months.
As Hurricane Michael approaches, many are wondering what effect this storm will have on this harmful bloom.
According to marine biologists, there may be two different scenarios that play out: one positive and the other negative.
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The positive would be strong offshore winds that would help to break up the algae and push it away from the coastline. However, where the winds blow onshore, this could push the bloom inland into interior channels and canals.
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The bigger concern is whether Hurricane Michael's heavy rainfall leads to flooding. Runoff from agricultural areas could send fertilizer filled with nutrients to the beaches and coastline. If these nutrients reach the toxic algae, they would feed the bloom and cause it to grow.
Experts will continue monitoring the red tide and the effects Hurricane Michael may have on it.