The southeastern coast of Australia is currently blanketed in a layer of white foam that resembles a giant bubble bath.
On Monday, ABC Australia and the Associated Press reported widespread sea foam along coastal areas stretching from southeastern Queensland to northern New South Wales (NSW). This unusual phenomenon is attributed to Tropical Cyclone Alfred’s landfall in southeast Australia.
Reports indicate that Category 2 Cyclone Alfred landed north of Brisbane last Saturday evening. With strong winds and heavy rainfall, the cyclone vigorously churned the seawater along major coastal areas, including Brisbane and the Gold Coast. This turbulent action mixed salt, proteins, and other substances, forming extensive sea foam.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), when organic matter from decaying algae increases in the ocean, it raises the water’s viscosity. As waves crash into this thickened water, air becomes trapped, forming bubbles contributing to the foam.
Sea foam is not unique to Australia; it has been observed along coastlines worldwide, including in the United States and Spain. Global warming is believed to be contributing to an increase in these occurrences. Intensified winds and heavy rains driven by climate change lead to higher production of organic materials in the ocean, further fueling the phenomenon.
Social media has images and videos of residents and tourists interacting with the foam. Some swim through thick layers above waist height, while others stroll along foam-covered beaches.
Although most sea foam is harmless and naturally forms and dissipates as part of the marine ecological cycle, potential risks remain. If the foam contains microplastics or harmful algae, it could threaten human health and the environment.
Dr. Ipek Kurtböke, a microbiologist at the University of the Sunshine Coast in Australia, describes sea foam as a “bacterial smoothie.” She cautions, “The foam may harbor pathogens more dangerous than those found in wastewater treatment facilities,” emphasizing the risks associated with swimming in or breathing near the foam.
