“The presence of Portuguese caravels, with the scientific designation 'Physalia physalis', was detected in the water and on the beaches of the municipalities of Sines and Odemira, including on the River Mira”, says the Captaincy of Porto de Sines in a statement.

According to Commander Rui Filipe, in the last few days "about 20 Portuguese caravels, with a greater incidence at the mouth of the River Mira, up to the bridge, where about ten were sighted" were seen.

The captaincy says that the Portuguese caravel "presents a blue-purple, transparent, balloon-shaped float, its tentacles are on average 10 meters long”.

“Human contact with this organism, even when it appears to be dead, causes severe pain, sometimes severe burns, irritation, swelling and itching. Some people, especially sensitive, may have more severe allergic reactions”, he warns.

Therefore, “avoid touching these organisms, even when they appear to be dead / dry. In case of contact with this species, the affected area must be cleaned with sea water and any pieces of tentacles that may have become trapped in the skin should be removed, vinegar or compresses should be applied and seek medical assistance”.