Severe Cold Weather Threatens Sea Turtles and Marine Life

News Summary

Charleston, SC is experiencing dangerously low temperatures that threaten the local sea turtles and marine life. With cold stunning affecting turtles and potential impacts on shrimp populations, officials raise alarms about the effects of prolonged winter weather. Residents are urged to be vigilant as fisheries cope with extreme conditions and support is given to cold-stunned turtles in rehabilitation.

Severe Cold Weather Threatens Sea Turtles and Marine Life in South Carolina’s Lowcountry

The charming city of Charleston is facing a winter chill that isn’t just uncomfortable for its residents but could spell trouble for the region’s beloved sea turtles and other marine life. With temperatures struggling to stay above freezing, these gentle creatures are experiencing a condition known as “cold stunning,” leaving them feeling lethargic and unable to swim effectively.

A Threat to Shrimp Populations

The situation for marine life is concerning, especially for shrimpers who rely heavily on the spring roe crop. This valuable fishery resource is at risk as persistent low temperatures linger over the Lowcountry, dipping into the low 40s and even into the 30s at night. Marine experts urge the public to be vigilant as the underwater ecosystem struggles to cope with such a harsh winter.

The National Weather Service in Charleston has issued warnings about the cold weather continuing next week, with chilly daytime highs reaching only into the 50s. Jeff Brunson from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has identified an important temperature threshold for shrimp, noting that around 48 degrees, these creatures begin to feel the cold’s disruptive effects.

Diving Temperatures and Fishing Woes

Currently, water temperatures in Charleston Harbor hover at about 50.2 degrees but are expected to go down even more in the coming days. As water temperature drops, shrimp may start to migrate to deeper waters seeking warmer conditions. Unfortunately for local fishermen, this deep dive into the ocean is a bit of a double-edged sword as it leaves them more vulnerable to fishing boats.

With a typical trawling season running from mid-summer until late January, there are discussions about the possibility of an early closure amidst these frigid temperatures. It’s a difficult balance to strike, as crabbers and fishermen continue to worry about the potential impact on their livelihoods. In past winters, especially during the notorious cold snap of 2018, the shrimp population faced severe setbacks that prompted a federal disaster declaration.

Cold-Stunned Turtles Need Help

The Impact on Daily Life

According to reports, cold weather has also been keeping visitors away from the picturesque beaches of the region. While some brave souls are still taking walks along the shore, they wrap up in warm jackets and scarves, hoping for the weather to improve. With Gov. Henry McMaster declaring a state of emergency due to predicted snow, sleet, and ice across South Carolina, it’s essential for the community to stay informed and take precautions.

Looking Ahead

Forecasts suggest temperatures are going to plunge with lows around 30 degrees and only reaching into the low 50s during the day. As the animals and local fisheries battle these extreme weather conditions, each cold day poses new challenges for our marine friends. The natural beauty of Charleston’s coast may be tested, but with community awareness and support, there’s hope that both the sea turtles and the shrimp will weather this storm.

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Additional Resources

• AOL: Extreme Cold Chills Marine Life
• Wikipedia: Cold Stunning
• AOL: Heavy Snow Forecast for Snoqualmie Pass
• Google Search: Extreme Cold Weather Effects
• AOL: Zebra Dies in Incident with Rhino
• Google Scholar: Marine Life Extreme Cold Weather
• Travel Awaits: Best Things to Do at Folly Beach, SC
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Marine Life Protection
• Cruising World: Sailing South Carolina’s Lowcountry Sea Islands
• Google News: Marine Life in South Carolina