Lion's mane jellyfish have been reported in Gloucester's outer harbor near Niles Beach, leading officials to warn beachgoers. Advisories indicate that these jellyfish can deliver painful stings even after washing ashore. Known for their size, they can exceed three feet in diameter with tentacles over 100 feet long. Experts advise maintaining distance, as stinging cells can still pose a threat. Gloucester officials have sought guidance from NOAA, are monitoring beach conditions, and will restrict access based on jellyfish activity.
"These jellyfish can deliver painful stings—even after they've washed ashore—so please use caution and avoid any jellyfish you may see," the city's advisory read.
Larry Madin stated, "The tentacles with stinging cells can still sting as long as they're still wet. Don't pick it up."
Officials reached out to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for guidance on dealing with large jellyfish and will monitor the situation closely.
The lion's mane jellyfish, considered a giant jelly, is "very toxic," although there are few reports of human fatalities from the stings, according to the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
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