Riviera Maya, Q.R. — Although forecasts indicate the eventual arrival of less sargassum than the previous two years, the state governor says officials will be ready all the same to deal with what does show up.
Sargassum monitoring forecasts for Cancun and Playa del Carmen show a significant decrease in the volume that could reach Quintana Roo shores, yet Governor Carlos Joaquín says they are preparing for any that does arrive with boats and barriers, so they can be ready before it hits any beaches.
He says various environmental agencies, including the Secretariat of the Navy, estimate that this year, the volume of sargassum will be lower compared to 2018 and 2019.
Carlos Joaquín explained that the plan for the 2020 sargassum season is being followed in order to be prepared for any contingency that may arise, both with vessels and sargassum containment barriers. This year, the state is equipped with additional boats that he says, will be used in different destinations including Xcalak, Mahahual, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos, Tulum and Benito Juárez (Cancun).
He also noted that they have more than 4,000 meters of containment barriers which will be placed in the most heavily affected regions, with the most extensive, 1,800 meters, being placed in Mahahual and Xcalak.
The head of the state said that everything is working and everyone will be ready so there are no affectations regarding the seaweed as in previous years. State officials are anticipating the seaweed to begin arriving for April, May and June before departing for another season.