Explaining Why New Jersey’s Waters Have Gotten So Clear
Recently, the beaches of the Jersey Shore have been dazzling visitors with their remarkably clear, turquoise waters, rivaling those of tropical paradises.
Typically known for their darker blue hues, these oceans have taken on a vibrant, almost Caribbean-like appearance, leaving many beachgoers in awe.
Why New Jersey’s Waters Have Gotten So Clear
This stunning transformation results from a combination of natural phenomena and long-term environmental efforts.
Recent west winds have played a role by pushing out murky surface water, while an upwelling event and a bloom of phytoplankton have further enhanced the water’s clarity and color.
Marine experts highlight that the striking blue-green colors are primarily due to phytoplankton growth.
These tiny marine plants thrive in nutrient-rich waters brought to the surface by upwelling, contributing significantly to the ocean’s vibrant appearance and supporting marine ecosystems.
Upwelling is when cooler, deeper water is pushed to the surface. This along with droughts not bringing muddy water into the ocean, helps the phytoplankton effect to take place.
Human activities also influence these changes. Nutrients from fertilizers and runoff, especially from rivers, play a role in fueling phytoplankton blooms.
Also See: Wildwood Enacts Backpack Ban on Beach and Boardwalk
These blooms create patches of intense color that vary along the coast depending on currents and local conditions.
Sediment from rivers and inlets can also impact water clarity.
Areas closer to inlets might appear murkier due to suspended particles, while beaches further away tend to have clearer waters.
This variation can be influenced by factors such as proximity to fresh water sources and tidal movements.
In contrast, tropical waters like those in Florida and the Caribbean often have fewer nutrients and less river runoff, resulting in clearer, more stable water conditions.
In North Wildwood, Wildwood, and Wildwood Crest we are also seeing these colored beaches but not as clearly.
This mostly has to do with the new beaches that are currently being pumped up onto the beach.
If you went to the beach from 7th Street North, you would have seen this blue water while South of 10th it’s a bit muggy and dark.
After the dredging and pumping is done, our waters will get clearer but most likely this upwelling won’t be going on.
There is no timeline for when the ocean will return to its usual color. Most likely, after a big storm rolls through, we will see the color return to normal. So get out there and enjoy the beaches!
We stopped by the beach to film what it looks like from the Seagull (drone) and it was beyond beautiful.
Let us know what you think!