Scorching Heatwave Continues ... Cumulative Livestock Deaths in Gyeongnam Reach 36,722

Increase of 16,486 Animals in a Single Day

Due to the ongoing heatwave, livestock damage is increasing in the Gyeongnam region.

According to Gyeongsangnam-do, as of July 9, a total of 36,722 animals have died from heat stress in most areas of the province's 18 cities and counties, with the exception of Tongyeong, Geoje, and Namhae.

This figure represents an increase of 16,486 animals from the previous day's total of 20,266, with chickens accounting for the majority at 16,245.

Since the first report on June 16, the cumulative livestock deaths have been tallied at 30,366 chickens, 3,770 pigs, and 2,636 ducks.

A livestock farm in Gyeongnam Province is operating ventilation fans to prevent heatwave damage. Provided by Gyeongnam Province

By region, the numbers are as follows: Changnyeong 12,183, Haman 8,785, Hapcheon 6,812, Goseong 2,997, Jinju 2,501, and Gimhae 1,441.

Yangsan reported 872, Hamyang 356, Geochang 273, Miryang 248, Changwon 104, Hadong 103, Sancheong 52, Sacheon 38, and Uiryeong 7.

The Korea Meteorological Administration forecasts that this summer will see higher-than-average temperatures, frequent heatwaves and tropical nights, and precipitation that will be similar to or greater than the average year.

Livestock deaths in the province due to heatwaves over the past three years, from 2022 to 2024, have been steadily increasing, with approximately 130,000 in 2022, about 79,000 in 2023, and around 160,000 in 2024.

Since May, Gyeongnam Province has established summer disaster prevention measures for livestock and organized a dedicated team to minimize livestock deaths and other damages to livestock farms caused by prolonged high temperatures resulting from abnormal climate conditions.