Tar Balls Wash Up On South Florida Beaches

Credit: Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue

FORT LAUDERDALE, Florida – Tar balls are washing up on Broward County and Palm Beach County beaches on Saturday, February 8, 2024, according to Ocean Rescue lifeguards and the U.S.Coast Guard.

Credit: Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue

“Due to an unknown oily substance found along our shoreline, Ocean Rescue lifeguards are telling beachgoers to stay out of the water from Riomar Street south to Port Everglades inlet. Similar reports from beaches to our north,” Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue posted on X.

“The @uscg is investigating reports of tar balls along the coast from the National Response Center. As information becomes available, we will provide updates. Please follow any and all guidance from your local government,” the U.S. Coast Guard posted on X.

“Coast Guard air and surface crews completed searches from Palm Beach to Port Everglades for the source of the tar balls. The source remains unknown. Further assessment will continue at first light with our partner agencies.”

Tar balls are small, dark, sticky balls of oil that wash up on beaches. They are a result of oil spills, natural oil seeps, and marine transportation discharges, according to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

How can you  tar balls from your skin?

Scrub with mineral oil, baby oil, or dish soap

Apply a grease removing agent

Apply a baking soda paste or commercial exfoliant

Rinse with fresh water

Apply a bandage to any raw or tender spots