Florida beach lovers could be facing a summer of smelly seaweed because the amount of sargassum in the Atlantic has hit an all-time high. The University of South Florida’s Oceanography Lab tracks this giant mass of seaweed, so we asked them about this new record and what it could mean for the beach season.

Severe storms are expected across the Southeast Thursday afternoon and evening. The highest risk for severe weather will be across Tennessee, northern parts of Georgia and Alabama, the western Carolinas and nearby portions of Kentucky and Virginia. Strong winds and large hail will be the main threats, although an isolated tornado cannot be ruled out. Hail up to 2 inches in diameter will be possible in places like Chattanooga, Knoxville and Asheville.

Apple snails are an invasive species generally banned from import and movement across state lines. Watch this video to learn about the environmental destruction they can cause, the potentially deadly risk to humans and why wildlife officials in southern states like Texas, Georgia, North Carolina and Louisiana want you to look out for the snails’ bright pink eggs.

Populations of the Asian Needle Ant are exploding throughout the Southeast. The invasive species was accidentally brought to the United States from Japan almost 100 years ago. Studies show that their venomous sting is more likely to cause anaphylaxis than a bee sting.

Rescue centers are overwhelmed as disoriented animals wash ashore, victims of a fast-growing toxin fueled by warming waters and pollution.