"It won't happen in our lifetime, right?" Many dismiss the eruption of Baekdu Mountain as something out of a movie. But recently, the silent giant's subtle stirrings have become ominous. Scientists consistently warn of the possibility of Baekdu's re-eruption, and if it becomes a reality, the damage will be beyond imagination. Did you know that it could lead to a global logistics crisis and crippling inflation, beyond just a simple natural disaster? This might not be a distant future problem. It could be tomorrow's headline. Now is the time for the wisdom to prepare calmly, rather than to panic.
1. The Sleeping Giant Stirs: Why is Baekdu Mountain Dangerous?
Baekdu Mountain is not just any mountain. It is one of the most powerful active volcanoes on Earth. The 'Millennium Eruption' about 1,000 years ago was so massive that it's considered one of the factors in the fall of the Balhae kingdom. The volcanic ash from that time was found not only in Japan but also in Greenland's ice cores.
Recently, magma activity beneath Heaven Lake has been observed again, and the concentration of helium, a volcanic gas, is increasing, with signs of re-eruption being consistently reported. Experts predict a reasonably high probability of an eruption within 100 years, suggesting this is by no means a distant tale.
"Natural disasters strike without warning. The wisest stance in modern society is to prepare for the worst and hope for the best." – Disaster Preparedness Expert
2. The Real Fear: 'Volcanic Ash' and 'Price Surges'
When a volcano erupts, many think lava is the most frightening aspect, but the most direct threat to the Korean Peninsula is 'volcanic ash.' Due to the westerlies, the ash could cover the entire nation. Composed of fine glass shards and rock fragments, volcanic ash has unimaginable destructive power.
- ✈️ Airspace Shutdown: It can cause aircraft engines to fail, grounding all flights. This leads to a global logistics paralysis.
- 💧 Water Contamination: Water sources become polluted, making it difficult to find clean water.
- 🌾 Agricultural Collapse: Crops wither without sunlight, and the soil becomes acidic, dealing a fatal blow to food production.
- 💻 High-Tech Industry Paralysis: Precision machinery, like in semiconductor factories, stops at the slightest dust.
Ultimately, all of this leads to one thing: crippling inflation. The supply of everyday goods will be cut off, while demand explodes, causing the price of everything we know to skyrocket. A situation where you have to pay several times the price for a single mask or a bottle of water could become a reality.
3. No Panic Buying! The Ultimate Checklist for Supplies
Rushing to the supermarket when disaster strikes is the worst choice. It's likely already too late. It's crucial to prepare gradually, when prices are stable. The list below covers key items besides food. We'll dive deep into food supplies in the next section.
| Category | Key Items | Reason & Tips |
|---|---|---|
| 😷Respiratory Protection | N95/KF94 or higher-rated masks, dust-proof goggles | Volcanic ash is fatal to the lungs. Simple winter masks are useless. Prepare plenty for your family and include goggles for eye protection. |
| 🩹Medical Supplies | Personal medications, cold medicine, disinfectant, bandages, ointment | If you have chronic conditions, secure at least a 1-month supply of medication. Basic first-aid supplies are essential as hospital visits will be difficult. |
| 💡Energy & Communication | Power banks, batteries, hand-crank radio, flashlights | Prepare for power outages. A radio is essential for obtaining disaster information. Solar-powered products are even better. |
| 🧼Hygiene Products | Wet wipes, toilet paper, sanitary pads, soap, hand sanitizer | Maintaining personal hygiene during a water shortage is fundamental to preventing illness. Waterless products are particularly useful. |
| 🛠️Other Useful Items | Duct tape, plastic wrap, multi-tool, lighter, candles, blankets | Tape and plastic wrap can seal window gaps to prevent ash from entering. Blankets for warmth and emergency lighting are also crucial. |
Key Takeaway: The Rolling Stock Method
Don't just store your emergency supplies and forget them. Use the "Rolling Stock" method: use items from your stockpile in your daily life and replace them as you use them. This way, you can keep your supplies fresh without worrying about expiration dates.
4. [Deep Dive] Smart Food Stockpiling: Beyond Ramen and Water
In a disaster, nothing is more critical than 'food'. Yet, many people only think of instant noodles and bottled water. A poor diet can worsen the stress of a disaster situation. Smart stockpiling involves a balanced selection of foods that are 'long-lasting', 'nutritious', and 'easy to prepare'.
🍚 Carbohydrates: The Foundation of Energy
As the main source of energy, they are essential for maintaining satiety.
- White Rice: Can last for decades if stored properly. Keep it in an airtight container away from moisture and pests in a cool, dry place.
- Pasta, Noodles: Easy to cook and versatile. They have a much longer shelf life than instant ramen.
- Oats (Oatmeal): Highly nutritious and can be prepared simply by adding hot water.
🐟 Protein: The Core of Strength and Immunity
Crucial for building body tissue and maintaining the immune system.
- Canned Goods (Tuna, Salmon, Chicken, Ham): The best ready-to-eat protein sources. They have a generous shelf life of 3-5 years.
- Dried Beans (Lentils, Chickpeas, etc.): Inexpensive, nutritious, and compact for storage. However, they require significant water and time to cook.
- Beef Jerky, Dried Fish: Lightweight and ready to eat, making them perfect for a bug-out bag.
🥑 Fats & High-Energy Foods: Quick Calorie Boost
Useful in emergencies as they provide high calories in small amounts.
- Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, etc., provide healthy fats and protein. Opt for vacuum-sealed packages.
- Peanut Butter: Has a long shelf life and is extremely high in calories, making it an excellent emergency food.
- Chocolate, Energy Bars: A quick source of sugar and energy when you're exhausted, and also great for morale.
🍯 Vitamins & More: Maintaining Health and Quality of Life
Necessary for health and mental well-being beyond basic survival.
- Multivitamins: Prevent nutritional deficiencies when fresh produce is unavailable.
- Honey: Lasts almost forever, is a great source of energy, and has natural antibacterial properties.
- Salt, Sugar, Cooking Oil: Enhance flavor, improve preservation, and are essential nutrients.
- Powdered Milk, UHT Milk: Essential for families with young children. Also a good source of calcium and protein for adults.
5. Only the Prepared Turn a Crisis into an Opportunity
The eruption of Baekdu Mountain is a terrifying disaster even to imagine. However, being consumed by vague fear is of no help. The most realistic way to protect yourself and your family is to calmly gather information and make minimal preparations.
The list introduced today is just a starting point. Add items necessary for your family's situation and make it a habit to check them periodically. Preparation is the surest way to quell anxiety and the wisest investment in an unpredictable future. Your small preparations will become your greatest strength in a moment of crisis.