Nationwide Sea Alert: "Six Simultaneous Disasters - An Unprecedented Occurrence"

This summer, seas around the nation are raising alarm bells. Six natural disasters, including high water temperatures, jellyfish blooms, red tides, cold water masses, and oxygen-depleted waters, are occurring simultaneously, dealing a severe blow to local fishermen and aquaculture businesses. Experts warn that this simultaneous occurrence of natural disasters is an unusual phenomenon linked to climate change, and that these disasters will likely become more frequent and intense in the future. This issue is not just a temporary situation but a serious warning sign of disruptions in the marine ecosystem caused by climate change.

 

1. Simultaneous Marine Disasters Due to Climate Change

According to the National Institute of Fisheries Science, six natural disasters—high water temperatures, jellyfish blooms, red tides, cold water masses, oxygen-depleted waters, and low salinity waters—are occurring concurrently in Korea's seas this year. Experts stress that this is an unprecedented event, and they warn that such occurrences are likely to increase in frequency.

 

One of the most serious problems is the high water temperature phenomenon. As of August 15th, the water temperature in Hampyeong Bay in the West Sea reached a high of 31°C, while the West Sea coast and the Jeju coast recorded temperatures around 30°C. These temperatures are 2-3°C higher than the average, causing significant instability in the marine ecosystem and posing a threat to farmed fish.

 

Another major issue is the sharp increase in jellyfish populations, particularly the highly toxic Nomura’s jellyfish. The rapid increase in jellyfish is primarily attributed to rising sea temperatures and concentrated rainfall in China. This year, the density of Nomura’s jellyfish, which has been entering Korea's coastal waters from China, has reached 108 per hectare, the highest since observations began in 2015. This surge in jellyfish numbers can cause severe damage to the fishing industry and marine tourism.

 

2. Compound Effects of Multiple Disasters

In addition to high water temperatures, oxygen-depleted water masses have been observed in Cheonsu Bay on the West Coast for the first time in six years. Oxygen-depleted waters threaten marine life, particularly farmed fish. Meanwhile, a cold water mass advisory has been issued for the central East Coast, where surface water temperatures are approximately 8°C lower than surrounding waters, potentially disrupting the marine ecosystem.

 

Red tides are another major concern. Preliminary red tide advisories have been issued for waters off the western South Coast, including areas near Geoje, while red tide warnings have been issued for Deukryang Bay and the eastern South Coast of Jeolla Province. Red tides release toxins that can cause massive fish die-offs, posing a severe threat to marine life.

 

Recently, low-salinity waters with a salinity of around 25 psu were observed southwest of Jeju Island. This is significantly lower than the normal summer salinity of 30-31 psu for Jeju waters. Low-salinity waters can disrupt marine ecosystems and negatively impact aquaculture operations.

 

3. The Climate Change Connection

Experts believe that climate change is the primary cause of these successive natural disasters. Rising temperatures, changes in sea temperatures, and heavy rainfall are all contributing to the instability of marine ecosystems. The simultaneous occurrence of multiple disasters suggests that climate change is increasing the severity and frequency of these events.

 

A representative from the National Institute of Fisheries Science stated, "It is highly unusual for natural disasters to occur simultaneously in this manner during the summer. These concurrent disasters are causing significant damage to aquaculture operations, and while further research is needed, it is believed that climate change is a key factor linking these events."

 

 

The six natural disasters occurring in Korea's seas this year are a clear indication that climate change is not a distant future problem, but a present reality. Climate change-induced marine disasters threaten not only fisheries and marine ecosystems but also our daily lives. We must increase awareness of climate change and develop measures to mitigate its impact. As these disasters become more frequent and severe, the need for action is more urgent than ever. We must all recognize the gravity of the situation and work towards creating a sustainable marine environment.

3-Sentence Summary

1. Six natural disasters, including high water temperatures, jellyfish blooms, and red tides, are occurring simultaneously in Korea's seas this year.
2. Climate change is suspected to be the cause of these unprecedented disasters.
3. Experts warn that the frequency and intensity of such disasters will increase in the future.

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