UK Jellyfish Invasion Predicted for Beaches and Coastlines in 2018

Legions of washed up jellyfish on UK coastlines, became a real theme in the summer of 2017. Thousands of the sea creatures washed up and filled beaches in Cornwall, Wales and along the South West coast last year.

Now, experts are saying this is likely to happen again due to the country’s current extreme weather.

According to Jonny Rudd, the curator at the National Sea Life Centre in Birmingham, the weather conditions caused by the infamous Beast from the East, created the perfect storm for the phenomenon to occur again.

He says: “With such intense winter conditions, it’s likely an extreme summer could follow. Scientists are concerned the ‘crazy’ current conditions are a prelude to more extreme and less predictable weather. This is where jellyfish thrive.

“Just last week researchers from Newcastle University published a paper reporting on how floods, droughts and heatwaves are all set to become more common in Britain and the rest of Europe.

“Jellyfish flourish in conditions created by global warming, pollution and overfishing, as evidenced by their invasions onto UK coastlines as recently as last year.

“Jellies are superbly adapted to plug the gaps when other species decline, which is one reason why there have been such huge swarms of jellyfish appearing in recent years.”

But though the wobbly, alien creatures look fascinating, beachgoers are warned not to touch them because even dead ones can sting.

“If you do get stung, you’re advised to treat any pain or swelling with painkillers. If it gets a lot worse and you suffer difficulty breathing or chest pain, you should dial 999,” Jonny advises.

A new permanent exhibition about the five different jellyfish species will be opening at the National Sea Life Centre this Easter. Jelly Invaders opens on Saturday 24 March and is included with the entry ticket.

For further information, visit: www.sealife.co.uk/birmingham

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