Why Does the Water Itch? The Biological Phenomenon Behind the Diseases on Santa Marta's Beaches

🌡️ High Temperatures = Biologically Active Water
High sea temperatures are the invisible driver behind these discomforts. When the water warms, microscopic life explodes in quantity and diversity, generating what experts call "biological actives." They are not pollutants, but natural organisms that proliferate with the heat.

🔍 What Are the "Active" Agents in Water?
1. Cnidarian Larvae (Jellyfish, Anemones, Hydra) 🪼
Microscopic and invisible to the human eye.

They contain stinging cells (nematocysts) that release toxins upon contact with the skin.

They cause itching, redness, and rashes, known as "swimmer's rash" or "sea lice."

2. Microscopic Algae 🌱
Some algae generate irritating toxins.

They can cause dermatitis upon contact or, in large quantities, respiratory irritation.

3. Intensifying Factors
Sun exposure: Burned skin is more sensitive.

Sunscreens: They can trap these larvae against the skin.

Ocean currents: Drive these concentrations of organisms toward the coast.

🔔 It's Not Pollution, It's a Natural Cycle
Contrary to popular perception, water is not dirty or chemically contaminated. It is a natural reaction, but intensified by:

Global warming.

Seasonality: It occurs more during periods of high temperatures.

This explains why the water "stings" more than usual in certain seasons.

✅ How to Prevent Skin Discomfort?
Avoid prolonged bathing during very hot hours.

Shower with fresh water immediately after leaving the sea.

Do not rub your skin if you feel burning; use cold water and vinegar to neutralize it.

Check the state of the sea with authorities or tour guides.

Additionally, the city is expected to implement warning systems or signaling (such as wave flags) in the future to report biological activity in the water.

🌍 A Call for Sustainable Management
This phenomenon is a reminder of how climate change affects not only the poles or the rainforest, but also our daily experience in tourist destinations.

Santa Marta is already taking action with technical committees and ongoing monitoring, but it is key that both visitors and locals understand that:

🔵 This is not contaminated water. It is biologically alive water.

With awareness, prevention, and responsibility, we can continue enjoying the beaches of Santa Marta, one of the jewels of the Colombian Caribbean.

📲 For more tourism or real estate information in Santa Marta, contact us at Grupo Sobrenatural:

WhatsApp:  +57 300 4994252

Website:  www.sobrenaturalinmobiliaria.com