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Girl Power: Kamie Halfmann's Track Career is Off and Running 5/24/13
Portuguese Men-of-War Invade South Texas Beaches 2/17/13
Associated Press
February 17, 2013
BROWNSVILLE, Texas - The warnings are out - Portuguese men-of-war have
invaded South Padre Island beaches.
The gas-filled, jellyfish-like marine creatures look harmless enough -
translucent pinkish or purplish balloons lying on the sand. But they drag with
them venomous tentacles that can leave fiery welts on the skin of hapless
bathers and beachcombers with whom they come in contact. In rare cases, allergic
reactions can prove fatal.
Cameron County officials say the men-of-war have floated in with the tide
onto the Boca Chica Beach and the beaches at Isla Blanca park, Andy Bowie Park
and Beach Access Nos. 5 and 6 on South Padre Island.
Officials say to avoid contact with the animals, even if they seem to be
dead.