Watch-Out! Typhoon Aftermath: A Bountiful Oyster Harvest Turns Fuzhou Beaches into a "Seafood Market"

 

By Shen Yihang

In the aftermath of Typhoon "Gemi," Fuzhou's beaches have transformed dramatically, offering an unexpected bounty of oysters. As reported by multiple media outlets on July 26, 2024, the recent typhoon has left a plethora of oysters scattered along Fuzhou's shores. The receding storm has prompted a wave of local residents to flock to the beaches, eager to collect this windfall of seafood.

A Bounty of Oysters Draws Crowds

On July 25, the beaches of Fuzhou were blanketed with oysters, presenting what seemed to be a grand feast from nature. The strong winds and towering waves of Typhoon "Gemi" not only brought a surge of marine resources but also deposited a substantial number of oysters along the shoreline. Many locals seized this opportunity, gathering in groups to collect oysters, with some even using buckets to transport their haul back home. While this phenomenon has certainly brought convenience to residents, we'd be very careful of the inherent risks. It's not suprise that non-local visitors shall exercise caution, as the beach remains hazardous due to strong winds and rough seas.

Dangers Along the Shoreline Cannot Be Ignored

Even after the storm, the coastal environment remains perilous. Typhoon "Gemi" brought a severe storm surge, one of the most destructive forms of marine disaster. This surge not only has significant destructive power but also carries with it floating debris and hazardous objects, such as unsecured boats and fishing nets. These hazards not only affect the cleanliness of the beach but also pose serious risks to personal safety. Additionally, the storm may have introduced pollutants and harmful substances into the seawater, increasing the risk of exposure.

The public security department in Quanzhou, a neighboring city, has issued a warning about the dangers of coastal areas after a typhoon. The strong winds and high waves can trigger secondary disasters. Debris and fishing gear left behind by the retreating sea pose potential hazards. Citizens are advised to be particularly cautious and avoid lingering on the beach to prevent accidents.

The risks on the beach after a typhoon are often underestimated. For instance, the tides can become unusually turbulent, and tidal changes can be more extreme. Those unfamiliar with tidal patterns, particularly visitors from out of town, may overlook the ebb and flow of the tides, potentially leading to being trapped by rapidly rising waters or even being swept out to sea. Additionally, typhoons can alter underwater topography, creating dangerous currents that are difficult to escape once caught.

Beyond tides and currents, the post-typhoon waters may harbor dangerous marine life such as jellyfish, sea urchins, and sea snakes. The venom of these creatures can cause severe injuries or even be life-threatening. The typhoon's destruction also often results in beaches littered with debris and sharp objects like glass shards and nails, posing risks of cuts and injuries.

Moreover, the weather after a typhoon can be highly unstable. Sudden storms and high winds can complicate rescue operations, significantly increasing safety risks during beach activities.

Lessons from the Past

Historical examples serve as a stark reminder of these risks. For instance, after Hurricane Irma struck Florida in 2017, the waters were infested with jellyfish and sea nettles, leading to multiple stings and serious injuries among swimmers. The changes in the marine environment due to the typhoon increased the likelihood of encounters with these creatures, demonstrating the risks posed by altered marine conditions.

Similarly, Typhoon Mangkhut in 2018 resulted in extensive debris washing ashore in Cebu, Philippines, severely polluting the beaches. Residents and visitors who ventured onto the contaminated beaches faced injuries from sharp objects or infections from polluted water.

Typhoon Bavi, a powerful storm in July 2020, struck western Japan and the Korean Peninsula, leaving behind high-energy waves. The lingering wave energy in shallow coastal areas posed a risk of being pulled into the sea by strong currents.

The aftermath of a typhoon brings a complex and hazardous coastal environment. Rising tides and increased wave activity exacerbate these dangers. Therefore, it is crucial for citizens to follow safety measures and heed warnings when visiting beaches after a storm. Avoiding the beach during storm surges and high waves and adhering to safety guidelines provided by local authorities are essential to ensuring personal and collective safety.

While the excitement of collecting seafood is understandable, safety cannot be compromised. The advice from locals—discouraging outsiders from blindly participating—stems from genuine concern, not prejudice or alarmism.

No doubt the thrill of harvesting wild seafood for free may be great, but safety must always come first. Typhoon "Gemi" has brought Fuzhou residents an impressive seafood bounty, but it also brings with it significant risks. Enjoy the pleasure of collecting seafood, but do so with caution and respect for the potential dangers. A momentary gain is not worth risking health or life.

(Note: The views expressed in this article are those of the author. Comments and discussions are welcome.)

Author: Shen Yihang  

Edited by: Samantha  

Date of Receipt: July 26, 2024

Contact: v10@cbcgdf.org; +8617319454776

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