What impacts are reported on by the HAB Forecast System?
Impacts addressed in the Condition Report refer to the impacts on humans caused by the toxic aerosol and the potential transport of dead fish to the coast. For shellfish closures, refer to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Division of Aquaculture (http://www.floridaaquaculture.com). The impact levels are based on studies reported in the scientific literature (see Kirkpatrick and others 2004, referenced below). The criteria used are the direction and strength of the nearshore winds and the intensity of the red tide, which is determined by the concentration of Karenia brevis cells in the water. Studies (e.g. Kirkpatrick and others, 2004, referenced below) have shown that onshore winds and breaking surf result in the release of toxins as aerosols. Wind speeds of greater than 7 miles per hour or 3 meters per second are an approximate threshold for the onset of breaking waves. When winds of this speed or greater are onshore, toxic aerosols may be present at the bea
