3 sources·Health

Strange Foam and Dead Fish Close Beaches in South Australia; Surfers Report Illness

Two South Australian beaches are closed after surfers fell ill and unusual foam and dead fish washed ashore, suspected to be caused by a microalgal bloom.

The distribution of story sources: left-leaning (blue), center (light gray), and right-leaning (red).
Mostly Reliable
The underlying sources are generally reliable but sometimes include opinion, propaganda, or minor inaccuracies.
Balanced
The underlying sources are either a balanced mix of left and right or primarily centrist.
Subscribe to unlock this story

We really don't like cutting you off, but you've reached your monthly limit. At just $3/month or $30/year, subscriptions are how we keep this project going. Start your free 7-day trial today!

Get Started
  1. Strange foam and dead fish wash onto 2 Australian beaches as surfers fall sick

    A microalgal bloom created by unusual weather conditions was suspected to have sickened humans and marine life as well as creating the foam that has covered hundreds of meters (yards) of coastline, South Australian Environment Protection Authority principal scientific officer Sam Gaylard said.

    Strange foam and dead fish wash onto 2 Australian beaches as surfers fall sick

    ABC NewsABC News·1M
    Reliable
    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
    ·
    Center
    This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
  2. Strange foam and dead fish wash ashore at 2 Australian beaches as surfers fall sick

    A microalgal bloom created by unusual weather conditions was suspected to have sickened humans and marine life as well as creating the foam that has covered hundreds of meters (yards) of coastline, South Australian Environment Protection Authority principal scientific officer Sam Gaylard said.

    Strange foam and dead fish wash ashore at 2 Australian beaches as surfers fall sick

    Associated PressAssociated Press·1M
    Reliable
    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
    ·
    Center
    This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
  3. Strange Yellowish Foam Washes up on Beach, Makes 100 Surfers Sick

    The substance was found at Waitpinga and Parsons beaches within the Newland Head Conservation Park.

    Strange Yellowish Foam Washes up on Beach, Makes 100 Surfers Sick

    Epoch TimesEpoch Times·1M
    Mixed Reliable
    This source has a mixed track record—sometimes accurate but also prone to bias, sensationalism, or incomplete reporting.
    ·
    Right
    This outlet favors right-wing views.
  1. ABC News
  2. Associated Press
  3. Epoch Times

Updated: Mar 18th, 2025, 4:22 AM ET

Summary

A summary of the key points of this story verified across multiple sources.

Following the closure of Waitpinga and Parsons Beaches in South Australia, surfers reported symptoms such as sore eyes, sore throats, and coughing. Officials linked these issues to a microalgal bloom possibly caused by recent hot weather conditions. As marine scientists conduct tests on the foam, concerns about human and environmental health are rising. The Department for Environment and Water has ordered the temporary closure of the beaches and placed warning signs regarding possible health risks associated with the algal bloom.


Perspectives

Compare opinions on this story from liberal (Left), conservative (Right) or center-leaning news organizations.

This story is either non-partisan or does not have the required sources to create partisan perspectives.


FAQs

A list of follow-up questions readers often ask about this story.
Strange Foam and Dead Fish Close Beaches in South Australia; Surfers Report Illness - Pano News