AZE.US
The declining water level of the Caspian Sea is changing the seabed and creating additional hazards for swimmers, experts have warned.
As the shoreline retreats, depressions and other dangerous areas are emerging in places that were previously underwater. These changes pose a particular risk to swimmers who misjudge the depth.
Anvar Aliyev, a department head at Azerbaijan’s Institute of Geography, said the falling water level is also affecting water temperatures. Swimmers can unexpectedly move from warm water into much colder layers, potentially triggering a sudden physical reaction and leaving them unable to swim safely.
Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Emergency Situations has urged the public to use only designated beaches. Areas without lifeguards may lack essential safety measures and should be considered dangerous, the ministry said.
Officials also warned against entering the water during rough seas or strong winds. Swimming is prohibited when wind speeds exceed 10 meters per second, or about 22 mph.
More than 40 bodies have been recovered from areas not designated for swimming since the start of this year’s beach season in Azerbaijan.
AZE.US