Blood-red sea in Sydney.

In late November 2012, an outbreak of “red tide” closed beaches along Australia’s Southeast coast.  Photos show the bright, blood-red color of the algae bloom (The Australian, November 28, 2012).  The “perfect storm” of conditions occurred off the Sydney coast and fostered the explosive growth of red tide algae. This algae thrives in high water temperatures and an abundant food supply.  This summer is among the hottest on record in Australia, creating very warm seas.  Also, stronger ocean currents apparently produced a greater “upwelling” of nutrient-rich water. Although this “fire in the sea” bloom was non-toxic, it can cause skin rashes and eye irritations.

Many today scoff at Bible prophecy—especially the book of Revelation—for being “too fantastic to really occur.”  However, “natural occurrences” like the “red tide” in Australia are one clear way Bible prophecy “could” be fulfilled.  Revelation 8:8-9 describes the Second Trumpet Plague that will occur during the year-long Day of the Lord.  Part of this plague will turn one-third of the world’s oceans to “blood,” killing a third of the sea creatures.  As evidenced in Sydney’s red tide outbreak, the right conditions can produce very large algae blooms that can be moved by wind and tides.  A major bloom can kill sea creatures by reducing the amount of sunlight, using up much of the available oxygen, and producing dangerous toxins—the larger the bloom, the greater the negative effects (Texas Parks & Wildlife, January 23, 2013).

For more information on the Trumpet Plagues of Revelation, review our informative booklet, Revelation: The Mystery Unveiled!