Charleston Braces for Cold Snap: Global Impact on Marine Life
Charleston is feeling the chill as residents and visitors experience a prolonged cold snap that’s making life uncomfortable for many. The forecast has been signaling continued low temperatures, with daytime highs only reaching the low 50s and nighttime lows dipping near freezing. While this is tough for the people, it’s proving even tougher for our local marine life.
Cold-Stunned Sea Turtles Are Seeking Warmth
The most heart-wrenching sight in these frigid temperatures is the impact on sea turtles, particularly the green turtles that call our waters home. Amber Kuehn, who leads the Sea Turtle Patrol on Hilton Head Island, reported spotting a green turtle on Tuesday near the Cross Island Boat Ramp, which was floating and lethargic. The turtle, affectionately named Poppy, was suffering from what is known as being “cold stunned.” These reptiles are especially vulnerable to the cold as they can’t control their body temperature. Unlike us, they can’t shiver to warm up or sweat to cool down.
When turtles get too cold too quickly, their metabolism slows significantly. This condition makes them unable to swim, leaving them floating helplessly in the water. Kuehn explains, “When I transport them, I have to turn the air conditioning on in the car to help them warm up, but it must be done gradually.” Poppy, just two years old and around a foot long, is currently recovering at the Sea Turtle Care Center in Charleston, but Kuehn fears that more turtles will be found in similar conditions as the cold continues.
Concerns Grow for the Local Shrimp Season
It’s not just turtles feeling the negative effects of the cold weather. Local shrimpers are on edge as they observe the current situation unfold. The valuable spring roe shrimp, especially the wintering shrimp that will eventually transform into the prized spring roe crop, are at risk. Jeff Brunson, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (DNR) crustacean fisheries manager, mentioned that the critical temperature threshold for shrimp is approximately 48 degrees. Below this temperature, shrimp begin to feel the effects of the cold, causing them to head to deeper waters.
Brunson stated, “Currently, the water temperature in Charleston Harbor is about 50.2 degrees but it’s expected to continue dropping.” The DNR is closely monitoring these temperatures since they could affect both survival rates and commercial fishing efforts. With less than favorable water conditions, there is a real chance that the trawling season may close earlier than usual, which typically runs from May or June to mid to late January.
A Historical Perspective
Long-time local shrimp fishermen share their worries. Craig Reaves, who owns Sea Eagle Market in Beaufort, emphasizes the importance of the spring roe shrimp to their livelihoods. He expressed his concern recalling the devastating effects of a similar cold snap in 2018, where just five days of extreme cold resulted in a significant decline in the winter shrimp population, leading to federal disaster declarations in both South Carolina and neighboring Georgia.
This season, the predicted prolonged freezing temperatures have many feeling anxious. Reaves commented, “We’re at a real critical tipping point as far as the shrimp mortality rates.”
Looking Ahead
With forecasts suggesting ongoing low temperatures and more rain—though not snow—in coastal areas, Governor Henry McMaster has declared a state of emergency to prepare for the winter weather’s impact across the state. While vacationing may not be at the forefront with this chilly weather, a few brave souls are still taking strolls on the beach bundled up in jackets and hats.
So as the locals continue to bundle up, let’s keep our fingers crossed for a quick warm-up. Our turtles, shrimp, and everyone in the Lowcountry will surely appreciate it!
Mays Contracting
