Reports of mysterious tar balls are popping up on beaches in South Florida as the U.S. Coast Guard looks to investigate the source of the sticky substance.

Total vegetable oil imports drop 13 per cent to 10.49 lakh tonnes in January from 12 lakh tonnes a year earlier.

The Department of Health was notified but declined to take samples. Crews cleaned, disinfected and deodorized the areas last night. Warning signs have been posted in the areas for residents.