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It is currently difficult to forecast red tide, Stumpf said. Data from the University of South Florida and the FWC can only predict red tide activity and how it may change up and down the coast about 3.5 days ahead, Matt Garrett, associate research scientist for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, told ABC News.

The best guess researchers can make is by tracking the direction of wind, but things like disease and viruses can also attack the blooms, causing them to dissipate, he added.

There are concerns that the bloom may stick around for another few weeks, but it's too early to judge, Stumpf said.

The red tide has hindered the ability for communities devastated by Hurricane Ian to \"get back to normal,\" Reidenbach said. The sight of dead fish may not be appealing to tourists and residents alike who are attempting to recreate outdoors.

\"Our businesses and our beaches are starting to reopen, but people aren't coming,\" Reidenbach said. \"We're still being held back economically because of red tide.\"

In 2018, then-Gov. Rick Scott declared a state of emergency to allow biologists and scientists to assist with cleanup and animal rescue efforts.

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