When are jellyfish most common around Gibraltar’s beaches, and how can I check for warnings?

Question

Accepted Answer

Jellyfish are mainly a summer issue, especially on the east-side beaches such as Eastern Beach and Catalan Bay, where the Government installs jellyfish nets during the bathing season. Check the flags and lifeguards on arrival, and follow HM Government of Gibraltar and Department of the Environment announcements for updates on nets and beach conditions.
Jellyfish appear around Gibraltar mainly in the warmer months, when they coincide with peak beach use. The species most associated with stings on Gibraltar’s beaches is the mauve stinger (Pelagia noctiluca), which has caused notable influxes on the eastern beaches in past summers. Barrel jellyfish are also sometimes washed ashore.
To reduce the risk, the Government deploys jellyfish nets at its public bathing areas during the official bathing season, including Eastern Beach and Catalan Bay. The nets can be damaged or displaced by strong easterly winds and are sometimes removed for repair, so protection is not constant. The Government announces changes to the nets through its press releases.
Before swimming, look at the flags and ask the lifeguards on duty about conditions. A red flag means no bathing, whatever the reason. Outside the bathing season and away from lifeguarded beaches, take extra care.
If you are stung, leave the water, rinse the area with seawater rather than fresh water, remove any visible tentacles carefully without bare hands, and ask a lifeguard for first aid. Seek medical help if the pain is severe, if you have difficulty breathing, or if the sting covers a large area.

When are jellyfish most common around Gibraltar’s beaches, and how can I check for warnings?

Short answer

Detailed answer

How Gibraltar manages the risk

Before you swim

If you are stung