When does the water clear?

[dbmclendon]

My husband and I have been vacationing inSouth Walton for 30 years. However during our last 5 visits the water has been full of seaweed. I know how clear and beautiful it can be. Has something changed or are we just unlucky? Is there an optimal time to visit if you want to see clear water?

 

[Kurt]

We have possibility of seaweed from about May to December - with the hottest months having the best chance of seaweed. This year June Grass came pretty late but we have had so much rain and stormy weather that the water has been unusually muddy and brown. It's a good bet that all the runoff adds more fertilizer (and pollutants) to the Gulf, spurring algae blooms.

Water conditions can change in a hurry for the better or worse.

The clearest water conditions are when the water is the coldest. Winter and spring are the best bets for clear water. Often times March through June are perfect. Sometimes May and June have plenty of June Grass.

 

[Lake View Too]

I'm absolutely no expert, but there is a possibility that the record setting rainfall we have had has introduced an unusual amount of stormwater run-off which has probably dumped a lot more nutrients into the Gulf. And that has led to more seaweed. That is my guess.

 

[Kurt]

Yesterday in Inlet Beach and Alys Beach.

 

[Andy A]

Clear at BMB yesterday. I haven't checked this morning.