South Carolina beach sees rise in Man O'War stings, sightings, officials say

A Portuguese Man O' War. (iStock)

Beachgoers beware: Portuguese Man O’Wars sightings and stings have been on the rise on at least one beach in South Carolina.

City of Folly Beach officials on Wednesday issued a warning to visitors and residents alike to be wary of the creatures on the shore, which can deliver a venomous sting.

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Getting stung by one of these sea creatures is incredibly painful, according to National Geographic. Even dead Man O'Wars can still deliver a sting.

Officials said anyone who spots the creature – which is a siphonophore, not a jellyfish, according to the publication – should report the sighting.

If stung, officials recommend using “vinegar and warmth” to to treat a Man O’War sting. More specifically, WebMD recommends rinsing the affected area with vinegar for 30 seconds before removing the creature’s tentacles with tweezers.

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Once the tentacles are removed, it’s best to then soak the same area with hot water for 20 minutes.