Blue-green algae is forcing beachgoers out of the ocean at three Martin County beaches. Deputies were warning people all day at Bathtub, Stuart, and Jensen Beach and by the evening time, the beaches were empty.
It was a nice Saturday evening in Stuart and could have been a great time at the beach.
Except red flags told people not to swim.
Deputies like Sgt. Steven Hearn warned beachgoers about the blue-green algae.
"It's just an order of public safety. We don't want anyone getting sick. We want people to enjoy their time here," says Hearn.
Brandford Morris says these beaches are normally backed. Now they're completely empty.
"Didn't know it affected the beaches."
While there is disappointment at the beaches, there's also some positivity in downtown Stuart.
Jordan Shwartz says Coastal Living Magazine is in town and they're seeing more than just the beaches.
"They're seeing the positive, they're seeing the happy people, the small businesses, the small town feel."
At the same time, the ocean is the driving force and everyone hopes this algae appearance is just a short one.
"People come here to go to the ocean. That's what they come here for," says Sandy Parmelee.
County Health officials were out assessing the situation today. They have alerted the DEP.