Venomous Jellyfish Warnings Off of Phuket

*The Phuket Express -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Phuket – The Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) has issued an urgent advisory warning tourists and operators to avoid water activities near Maiton Island…*

Published: 2026-03-21 15:50 UTC Event date: 2026-03-21

Venomous Jellyfish Warnings Issued Off of Phuket

Urgent Advisory for Phuket Tourists and Operators

The Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) issued an urgent warning on March 21, 2026, advising tourists and marine operators to avoid water activities near Maiton Island, Phuket, due to a surge in venomous jellyfish. The alert comes after marine veterinarians from the Siritharn Rare Marine Animal Rescue Center reported a high concentration of Pelagia species, commonly called “fire jellyfish,” in the area. Authorities suspended all water-based activities off Maiton Island immediately following the detection.

High Concentrations of Fire Jellyfish Detected

According to the Siritharn Rare Marine Animal Rescue Center, densities of fire jellyfish reached up to 40 individuals per 100 meters during high tide. These jellyfish, which average 2–3 centimeters in diameter, are known for their painful stings, which can cause skin irritation and itching upon contact. Several tourists and boat crew members have already experienced mild symptoms after accidental exposure, prompting swift action from local authorities.

Public Safety Measures and Awareness Campaign

In response to the jellyfish threat, officials initiated a public awareness campaign to inform both locals and visitors about the risks. The DMCR has distributed first-aid guidelines via QR codes at key locations and urged all beachgoers to exercise caution. The department emphasized that fire jellyfish often appear in large numbers during high tide and certain seasonal conditions, making ongoing vigilance essential for public safety.

Ongoing Monitoring and Next Steps

The Department of Marine and Coastal Resources reiterated its call for cooperation from the public, advising everyone to refrain from entering the water around Maiton Island until further notice. Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation and will provide updates as conditions change. Tourists and operators are encouraged to stay informed through official channels to ensure safety and maintain confidence in Phuket’s marine tourism sector.

Source: https://thephuketexpress.com/2026/03/21/venomous-jellyfish-warnings-off-of-phuket/