Residents have been advised to be aware of the onset of the jellyfish season in the kingdom, which runs from April to August, when a dip in the sea proves tempting as the sunshine returns after a spell of stormy weather.
There have been some scattered sightings last month reported by many observers around Amwaj Islands such as British expatriate and housewife Nicola Thirsk.
“They appear to have arrived super early this year,” Ms Thirsk told the GDN. “People still swim but are a little cautious,” she added.
The Bahrain resident of 17 years is a regular swimmer and recounted being stung by one at Jarada Island.
“I got stung really bad and it lasted 10 days and left a scar,” she said.
“The smaller ones don’t often come close to the shore but they are the ones that really sting, causing significant pain, redness, swelling and blisters.”
“The big ones don’t sting that much, more like a light electric shock and some swimmers are left with only a minor red rash afterwards.”
Jellyfish are almost transparent marine creatures and their sting can cause severe pain, in some cases, create life threatening reactions.
According to Royal Life Saving Bahrain (RLSB) general manager Sam Rahman, jellyfish sightings can vary slightly each year depending on sea temperature, currents and wind patterns.
Warmer water and particular current movements can bring jellyfish closer to shore earlier than usual.
“In Bahrain we typically see increased jellyfish activity from late March through the summer months, but occasional early sightings are not unusual. It does not necessarily indicate a larger or more dangerous season, but it is a reminder for swimmers and beachgoers to remain aware of the conditions in the water,” he said.
“Several types of jellyfish can appear in Bahrain’s waters. Most are not considered dangerous, though they can still cause uncomfortable stings. Common species seen in the Gulf include Moon jellyfish, Blue jellyfish and, occasionally, larger seasonal species carried by currents.”
“Most stings result in temporary pain, redness or irritation rather than serious medical issues. However, anyone experiencing strong reactions, such as difficulty breathing or severe pain, should seek medical attention immediately.”
According to Mr Rahman, jellyfish stings accounted for four per cent of all first aid incidents RLSB lifeguards treated last year.
Founded by Shaikha Nayla bint Hamad Al Khalifa, RLSB is Bahrain’s first water safety and drowning prevention organisation, committed to promoting water safety and educating the public about potential risks.
RLSB currently employs 38 full-time lifeguards working at their six beaches, who work 365 days a year to ensure the safety of beach visitors.
Lifeguard services operate at Bilaj Al Jazayer, Marassi Beach, Vida Hotel, Address Hotel, Solymar Beach and Sama Bay.
Last year, RLSB registered more than 364,862 beach visitors to these locations and completed more than 20,259 preventative actions, treated 312 first aid injuries and performed 187 water rescues.
“The second batch of 15 young Bahrainis taking our three-month full-time Future Lifeguard Training Programme, which is supported by Tamkeen, has just graduated and we are now supporting them with finding employment opportunities as lifeguards and related roles.
“We have signed a contract with Edamah to provide our service at the New Bahrain Bay beach, which will open this year, and we are also working with Bahrain Surf Park Club Hawaii experience to ensure the highest standards of water safety for this exciting project in the kingdom,” he revealed.
“For those visiting beaches or swimming areas, we strongly recommend swimming only at beaches with lifeguards present. Check local safety advisories before visiting. Avoid swimming alone. Avoid touching jellyfish in the water or on the beach and seek lifeguard assistance immediately if stung, stay close to shore, and leave the water immediately if conditions change or if lifeguards advise exiting the water,” Mr Rahman advised, highlighting that in the current hostile environment, people should also remain attentive to civil defence guidance and prioritise safety.
In the midst of the ongoing Iran war, residents have been asked to avoid public gatherings.
Since the start of the attacks a month ago, many areas have been affected by drones or falling debris from the interceptions. Beach access varies depending on decisions by authorities and site operators.
“Lifeguards and coastal operators continuously monitor water conditions. If debris or hazards are identified, swimming areas may be temporarily restricted for safety reasons,” he added.
Sharing guidelines specifically for swimmers when the sirens ring, he said: “Exit the water immediately, follow instructions from lifeguards or emergency services, move to a safe area or shelter as directed, and avoid remaining on open beaches. Emergency alerts are designed to provide early warning, so responding quickly helps ensure everyone remains safe.
melissa@gdnmedia.bh
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