Terrifying Cold Wave Hits US, Threatening Even the Ecosystem

"After a Warm Winter, Sudden Cold Hits Unprepared"
Birds, Fish, Wild Animals, and Livestock Face a 'Tough Winter'

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyunjung] Reports have emerged that the severe cold wave, which is gaining strength day by day, is threatening not only humans but also the entire ecosystem, including birds and fish.

On the 22nd (local time), the British newspaper The Guardian reported that after experiencing a record warm winter during the first two weeks of December, the United States suddenly faced an extreme cold wave this week, putting about 150 million people as well as animals in harsh conditions.

The U.S. National Weather Service (NWS) warned that temperatures this week will drop to between -31°C and -37°C, accompanied by record-breaking strong winds reaching speeds of up to 96 km/h.

Additionally, due to this cold wave accompanied by heavy snow and blizzards, temperatures in some areas could fall as low as -57°C, where frostbite can occur within five minutes of exposure.

Alex Lamers, a meteorologist at the NWS Weather Forecast Center, said, "It is unusual for temperatures to drop so rapidly in such a short time," adding, "This will be a more abrupt change than anything recently experienced by humans or other living beings."

Experts expressed concern that such 'temperature swings' could make it difficult even for animals well adapted to cold weather to endure.

Brooke Bateman, Climate Science Director at the National Audubon Society, a bird protection organization, said, "Birds generally cope well in cold environments, especially in regions where low temperatures are common," but added, "However, such a rapid temperature drop in a short period is dangerous even for birds." He explained, "When the weather is cold, birds use more energy and require more food."

The sudden temperature drop also affects aquatic life. Fish and other aquatic creatures usually move to deeper waters when temperatures fall, but if the temperature changes too abruptly, they may not be able to relocate in time. This can lead to mass fish die-offs.

Wild animals also find it difficult to endure the harshness of the cold wave. Animals that spend winter in burrows may struggle to secure shelter or food due to the sudden cold.

Cattle and other livestock raised outdoors can also experience stress from rapid climate changes. The NWS warned, "Livestock will also be seriously affected by the cold wave." It explained that ranchers are rushing to move their herds to areas where they can be protected from storms and to stockpile more feed to withstand extreme conditions.

The Guardian further noted, "The cold wave also has a significant impact on humanity," expressing concerns that it threatens the lives of the homeless, disrupts holidays and travel, and puts strain on power grids. Public institutions are urging households to prepare in advance for worst-case scenarios, as strong winds could cause energy system failures.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.