Jellyfish invasion in Pattaya: Beachgoers left feeling stung

Jellyfish have recently swarmed Jomtien and Dongtan beaches in Pattaya, causing concerns among beachgoers. A large number of jellyfish were seen floating in the sea, particularly at these two popular beaches.

This occurrence is common during the late rainy season and early winter or stormy weather. The jellyfish have been present for about three to four days.

Wallop Boonchu, a disaster prevention officer in Pattaya, indicated that the jellyfish belong to the moon jellyfish species. While they are not life-threatening, they can cause itching and skin irritation if touched. Lifeguards have been instructed to warn tourists to avoid contact with the jellyfish.

Deputy Mayor of Pattaya, Kritsana Boonsawat mentioned that tourists who come into contact with jellyfish should rinse the affected area with vinegar to alleviate irritation. He advised swimmers to exercise caution during this period.

The Pattaya News reported that this influx of jellyfish is expected to continue for a few more days, so visitors to Jomtien and Dongtan beaches should remain vigilant and heed the advice of local officials.

In similar news, officials in Phuket issued a warning for Patong beach visitors after dozens of venomous bluebottle jellyfish were found washed ashore. The Marine and Coastal Resources Research Centre (Upper Andaman Sea) reported encountering the jellyfish on the beach yesterday evening.

Officials from the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) and lifeguards from Patong Surf Life Saving quickly responded, discovering 40 bluebottles in the shallow waters. These jellyfish were driven towards the shore by strong winds. Fortunately, no sting incidents have been reported so far.

In other news, a Russian woman was dramatically rescued by heroic Thai fishermen after her ambitious 8-kilometre swim from Na Jomtien Beach went horribly wrong. The woman found herself drifting aimlessly in the sea for a staggering seven hours, unable to find her way back to shore.