Algal Bloom Surges at Nakdong River Chilseo Point Due to Heatwave... Algae Warning Issued at Attention Level

[Asia Economy Yeongnam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Kang Sharon] The Nakdong River Basin Environmental Office issued an algae alert at the Chilseo point of the Nakdong River at 3 p.m. on the 5th.

The Chilseo point had its algae alert lifted on the 22nd of last month, but recently, the number of harmful cyanobacteria cells exceeded 1,000 twice in a row, leading to the reissuance of the alert after two weeks.

According to algae measurements, the number of cyanobacteria cells, which was 60 cells/㎖ on the 19th of last month, surged to 7,609 cells/㎖ on the 26th of last month and 25,563 cells/㎖ on the 2nd.

The Nakdong River Office analyzed that the steady increase in cyanobacteria concentration was due to rising water temperatures following a short rainy season in early last month, combined with continued heatwaves and drought.

Director Lee Hojung stated, “We will work with related agencies to ensure the safety of drinking water.”