Warmer water temperatures along Connecticut's shoreline may be responsible for the early arrival of jellyfish this summer.
With water temperatures at or above 70 degrees in Long Island Sound, it's also increased the numbers of jellyfish along the shore, according to The Day of New London.
The heavy spring rains and subsequent flooding may also have contributed to more pollution in the water. "If you have polluted water with reduced oxygen and increased temperatures, you'll see more jellyfish," Tony LaCasse, spokesperson for the New England Aquarium, told the paper. "They're able to compete better against the finfish."
Busy days at Connecticut's beaches could see two or three people stung by jellyfish, according to a Department of Environmental Protection Spokesperson. If excessive jellyfish are present, a red flag warning is issued, temporarily closing swimming areas, the spokesperson told The Day.
