On the 14th, when the intense heatwave continued, green algae occurred around Juksanbo of Yeongsangang River in Naju-si, Jeollanam-do. [Image source=Yonhap News]
On the 16th at 10 a.m., the Ministry of Environment issued the first algal bloom alert of the year at the "Warning" level for Daecheongho and Boryeongho.
The algal bloom alert is issued based on the number of cyanobacteria cells in collected samples, in the order of Interest, Warning, and Massive Outbreak.
Daecheongho and Boryeongho, where the Warning level was issued, are experiencing a large amount of green algae. The Ministry of Environment explained that the cause is the rise in water temperature due to continuous heatwaves after the rainy season, combined with pollution inflow caused by heavier rainfall than usual.
The Ministry of Environment and related agencies stated that green algae removal boats have been deployed near water intake facilities to remove the algae. Barriers have been installed to prevent algae from entering the intake points, and water is being drawn from depths more than 10 meters below the surface to minimize algae inflow. The observation frequency at algal bloom alert sites has been increased from once to twice a week, and water treatment plants are enhancing advanced treatment methods such as activated carbon adsorption and ozone treatment to remove green algae.
The Ministry of Environment held a green algae response status meeting at the Hangang Flood Control Office, chaired by Vice Minister Lee Byung-hwa, and plans to mobilize all personnel and equipment. Vice Minister Lee said, “As the heatwave is expected to continue until the end of August, the green algae situation is expected to worsen. We will intensify pollution source management and ensure drinking water safety to alleviate public concerns.”
Meanwhile, the Warning level has been issued for Daecheongho and Boryeongho, while the Interest level has been issued for Nakdonggang Haepyeong, Gangjeong-Goryeong, Chilseo, Mulgeummaeri, and Geumgang Yongdamho. Green algae was also observed for the first time this year at Paldangho in the Hangang watershed.
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