Red tide conditions persist along the Southwest Florida coast. As of Friday, the FWRI reports the bloom extends from Pinellas to Collier counties and affect approximately 140 miles of shoreline. The highest concentrations of Karenia brevis, the algae that causes red tide, were found along Manasota Key in Charlotte County and in the Gasparilla Sound area. In affected areas, numerous fish kills have been reported and some people may experience respiratory distress. Persons with respiratory conditions such as asthma or COPD should stay away from affected areas.

Anglers fishing offshore report that red tide diminishes as you go further out, with areas past 15 miles generally clean.