Jellyfish
A main concern for visitors to Colonial Beach are the jellyfish in the water. In the late summer months they tend to want to enjoy the warm Potomac River area.
The annual Triathlon that comes to town every summer even moved their event date from July back to June so the competitors would not have to encounter any jellyfish during the swimming portion of the event.
One really cool thing is that dolphins sometimes swim alongside the athletes. Perhaps they are providing some encouragement to the race participants?
Anyway, back to the main topic. Brackish water conditions in warmer summer months are hospitable for Sea nettles which are small, milky-white jellyfish that have stinging tentacles and measure typically about four inches in diameter. The larger species known as moon jellyfish grow to about ten to twelve inches across and they carry hundreds of short tentacles.
Sea Nettle or bay nettleBay nettle Chrysaora chesapeakei
family: Pelagiidae
genus: Chrysaora
Moon Jellyfish or common jellyfishMoon Jellyfish Aurelia aurita
family: Ulmaridae
genus: Aurelia
While the sea nettles can offer up a sting similar to that of a bee sting with a sharp, burning pain you may experience raised welts or rashes. There is a possibility of an allergic reaction like hives, dizziness or swelling of the throat. Stings are rarely fatal.
Moon jellyfish can produce a mild sting which may lead to redness, slight itching and mild burning.
To protect yourself from stings you can avoid the water when these guys are plentiful, wear a wetsuit or pantyhose while swimming or apply a barrier cream like Safe Sea.
Here's a map of where they are currently in Colonial Beach and in what concentrations.
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