Jellyfish activity has surged along the Delaware coast this summer, with reports of a dramatic increase in stings. July witnessed a fourfold rise at Lewes Beach, causing lifeguards to carry vinegar solutions to neutralize venom. Significant species include lion's manes and sea nettles. Comparatively, only a few stings were reported in past summers. The Delaware State Beach Patrol tracked over 1,200 stings in 2025, up from 295 in 2024. Experts advise using baking soda slurry as vinegar may exacerbate the situation due to venom-coated barbs.
"The jellyfish are pretty bad," Jones said. "And not only are they a lot in number, but they're pretty big."
Lewes Beach Patrol treated 295 stings in 2024... over 1,200 cases so far in 2025, said Capt. Strohm Edwards.
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