Though no longer an uncommon occurrence each summer, a streak of red tide hit local waters as early as last week, a premature showing from the algal bloom that officials say is likely responsible for a fish kill in an Aquebogue creek.

A spokesman with the Department of Environmental Conservation stated on Thursday that on Aug. 2, dead killifish, snappers, and black sea bass - all with a coating of "orange slime" - were reported at Cases Creek in Aquebogue.

The report, which is "almost certainly" red tide according to the DEC, came earlier in the summer than typical occurrences - and bodes for a summer where locals will likely see the dark algae in higher quantities across the East End.

via Red Tide Appears Early This Summer - Southampton, NY Patch.