JUNO BEACH, Florida (WPBF) — Even though Hurricane Erin is hundreds of miles east of Florida, our beaches are feeling the effects this week.
Not only are we nearing the peak of the hurricane season, but it is also hatchling season.
Sea turtle nesting season runs from March through the end of October.
Hurricane Erin is not only producing big swells but also contributing to beach erosion across Florida’s east coast. Big waves can wash away sea turtle nests and can also flood them.
Whenever there are dangerous storms in the Atlantic or even a strong onshore wind for days, this can affect sea turtles’ nesting habits. Experts say that because of weather conditions or cliffs forming in the sand, some of the nests can become exposed, and the eggs are no longer viable.
Even hatchlings that ha