Cracked mud bed of Aral Sea
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Cracked mud bed of Aral Sea
Aral Sea drought. View across a vast expanse of dried mud flats, formerly at the bottom of the Aral Sea, CIS. The Aral Sea was once the fourth largest inland sea in the world, with a surface area of 66, 000 square kilometres. Extensive use of irrigation schemes upstream on the seas feed rivers have drastically reduced the lakes water supply. This has been compounded by water loss through evaporation. As a result, by 1990 the sea had only 30% of its 1960 water volume, and its salinity has tripled. Fishing in the sea, 25, 000 tonnes in 1960, has ceased completely leading to the collapse of the local economy
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6374685
© RIA NOVOSTI/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Aral Sea Climate Drought Meteorology Weather Aral
EDITORS COMMENTS
This striking print captures the devastating consequences of the Aral Sea drought. Once a thriving body of water and the fourth largest inland sea in the world, it now showcases a desolate landscape of cracked mud flats stretching as far as the eye can see. The Aral Sea's decline can be attributed to extensive irrigation schemes upstream, which have drastically reduced its water supply by diverting rivers that once fed into it. Additionally, high rates of evaporation have further exacerbated this crisis. By 1990, the sea had lost a staggering 70% of its water volume compared to 1960, leading to a tripled salinity level. As a result, fishing activities that once thrived here came to an abrupt halt, with no hope for recovery. This collapse in local economy has left communities devastated and struggling to find alternative sources of income. The image serves as a stark reminder of how human actions and environmental factors can lead to catastrophic outcomes. It highlights not only the impact on climate and meteorology but also raises questions about sustainable resource management and conservation efforts worldwide. This powerful photograph from Science Photo Library prompts us to reflect upon our responsibility towards preserving our planet's delicate ecosystems before they reach irreparable states like that seen in this haunting depiction of the Aral Sea drought.
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