Portuguese Man-of-War spotted on Sunset Beach

SUNSET BEACH, NC (WWAY) — Sunset Beach Fire Department is warning beachgoers of portuguese man-of-war washing up on shore.

The fire department says they aren’t jellyfish but colonies of organisms with a powerful sting. Even when dead, their tentacles can still sting.

They say to look out for blue or purple, balloon-like floats on the surface of the water or washed up on the sand. Also watch for long, thread-like tentacles.

If you get stung, rinse it out with saltwater and seek medical attention if you experience severe pain, difficulty breathing, or other serious symptoms.