Jellyfish and Portuguese Man o’ War are still present in places along the Gulf Coast, officials are warning.

South Walton Fire Department said the stinging sea creatures are present in the area, including Destin, Florida and along 30A. Purple flags, indicating the presence of dangerous marine life, are posted in the area. Yellow flags indicating moderate surf hazards are also flying.

Portuguese man o’ war are similar to jellyfish in appearance and capable of producing a powerful sting. Its tentacles contain stinging nematocysts that can deliver venom capable of paralyzing and killing small fish and crustaceans. The stings are rarely deadly to people but can cause extreme pain and welts on exposed skin. Even Man o’ War on the shore can be dangerous – they are capable of stinging even weeks after being washed on land, NOAA said

The SWFD recommends using warm water, not ice, for pain relief. People are advised to call 911 and alert the closest lifeguard in the event of a severe allergic reaction.

Yellow flags are posted in Panama City Beach and Gulf Shores.

According to the National Weather Service the rip current risk for an area from Dauphin Island to Destin is low through today before increasing the moderate by Thursday. Rip current risks will increase to high on Thursday to Saturday. Life threatening rip currents are likely through the week with surf dangerous for all levels of swimmers.