- All the beaches in the town of Guardamar del Segura, in Alicante on the Costa Blanca, were temporarily closed after venomous blue dragons (Glaucus atlanticus) washed ashore.
- The closures occurred on Wednesday due to the potential danger posed by the sea creatures, which can inflict painful stings causing burns, nausea, and vomiting.
- Despite their small size, these blue-striped creatures are known to prey on the highly venomous Portuguese man o' war.
- The beaches reopened on Thursday, 21 August, but a yellow flag indicating a moderate hazard remained, and visitors were urged to exercise caution and avoid contact with the blue dragons.
- Local authorities advised anyone encountering a blue dragon not to touch it, to notify rescuers, and to seek immediate medical attention if stung.
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