Portuguese man-of-war jellyfish close beaches in Spain and France — teen hospitalised

Large numbers of Portuguese man-of-war (Physalia physalis) have appeared along the Atlantic coasts of northern Spain — including the Basque Country and Cantabria — and France, forcing beach closures. Their tentacles can reach up to 20 metres and deliver severe stings. A 16-year-old was hospitalised after being stung, and local authorities have restricted or banned swimming at several beaches.