City of Tybee warns of Portuguese man o’ war

TYBEE ISLAND, Ga. (WSAV) – Multiple Portuguese man o' wars were spotted along the beach on Tybee Island Friday morning, according to the city.

Closely related to a jellyfish , a man o' war may be blue, violet or pink and rise to 6 inches above the waterline. Below are long strands of tentacles that can grow to an average of about 30 feet.

Its sting is rarely deadly to people, though it packs a painful punch and can cause welts.

"Please exercise caution and avoid contact," the city of Tybee stated . "If you come across one, do not touch it with your hands. If stung, seek medical attention immediately."

These siphonophores (animals closely related to jellyfish) can still sting even weeks after having washed ashore.