On Friday, the beach management agency of the Goa government issued a warning regarding the presence of toxic Portuguese man-of-war or blue bottles, a jelly-like marine organism, along the extensive coastline. The advisory from Drishti Marine cautioned both locals and tourists against entering the sea at Baga beach due to the potential presence of bluebottles in the waters or along the shoreline. It emphasized that even wading into the waters is not advisable during the monsoon months due to unfavorable sea and weather conditions for swimming.

The advisory explained the distinction between toxic and non-toxic marine animals, noting that while most jellyfish stings are harmless and cause only mild irritation, venomous species like the Bluebottle can be harmful on contact. It highlighted that even a dead bluebottle washed ashore can deliver a sting. Precautions recommended in the advisory include the use of hot water, spraying the affected area with vinegar, and applying ice packs.

While the occurrence of this particular marine organism is rare, it is observed in the waters during intermittent periods amid heavy monsoon conditions.