According to NIFS, there is a strong possibility that this year will see the onset of hypoxic water mass (HWM) earlier than in an average year due to frequent rainfall as well as nearshore water temperatures remaining higher than those of the previous year under the impact of climate change. 

HWM refers to a body of water with extremely low dissolved oxygen (DO) levels, typically defined as less than 3.0mg/L, mainly occurs in bays with sluggish circulation, posing a serious threat to marine life. In particular, as semi-enclosed inner bays with sluggish circulation, such as Jaran Bay, are more susceptible to HWM, rapid on-site response through preemptive monitoring is highly necessary. 

In Jaran Bay this year, the conditions favorable for early HWM occurrence have formed. The water temperature and sea surface temperature (SST) are around 2℃ and 1℃ higher than those of the previous year respectively, and the accumulated rainfall has also increased by 100mm. AI-based predictions also indicate that HWM is likely occur earlier than usual. Accordingly, NIFS will establish an observation system as soon as possible to closely monitor the situation. 

“There has been increasing variability in the marine environment due to climate change, which means that HWMs can occur earlier and with greater intensity. Against this backdrop, NIFS will strive to strengthen its regular monitoring of sea areas at risk of HWM occurrence while providing real-time marine environmental data to enable preemptive on-site responses,” said Kwon Soon-wook, President of NIFS.