💥 We are facing a dual threat: the potential eruption of Baekdusan and rapid inflation. Scientists warn of a possible eruption around 2025, while global inflation continues to squeeze our daily lives. What should we prepare for now to face these two risks? This guide provides a comprehensive survival plan based on scientific evidence and practical measures.
1. Baekdusan Eruption Risk: Scientific Evidence and Scenarios 🔬
Baekdusan is an active volcano with an eruption cycle of about 100 years. With the last eruption recorded in 1925, the scientific community consistently raises the possibility of another one around 2025.
"Baekdusan has a history of covering the entire Korean Peninsula with volcanic ash. If a large-scale eruption occurs, the ash will spread across the entire peninsula." – Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources
| Eruption Scenario | Ash Thickness | Affected Area | Expected Damage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small-scale | 1-5cm | North Korea | Flight cancellations, agricultural damage |
| Medium-scale | 5-20cm | Northern Korean Peninsula | Respiratory diseases, power outages |
| Large-scale | 20cm+ | Entire Korean Peninsula | Infrastructure paralysis, evacuation |
2. Stockpiling Strategy: What, How Much, and How? 🏪
Systematic stockpiling is crucial. This is about planned preparation, not panic buying, to ensure your family's safety and reduce financial burden.
Basic Principles of Stockpiling
- 3-6 Month Supply: A reasonable amount for general disaster scenarios.
- Rotation: Use and replenish items to keep them fresh.
- Dispersed Storage: Store supplies in multiple locations to mitigate risk.
Essential Food Items (Long-term storage)
Stockpile rice, ramen, canned goods (tuna, spam, beans), dried foods, seasonings, and bottled water (3L per person per day).
Household Supplies
Prepare a 3-6 month supply of toilet paper, detergents, soap, toothpaste, shampoo, and personal hygiene products.
3. Emergency Supplies for Volcanic Ash: Survival Essentials 🎒
The primary danger from a Baekdusan eruption is volcanic ash, which can cause respiratory issues, electronic failures, and utility disruptions.
Dangers of Volcanic Ash: It can cause lung damage, eye irritation, and traffic paralysis.
Protective Gear
KF94 or N95 masks (at least 100 per family member), safety goggles, raincoats, and long-sleeved clothing.
Practical Tools
Flashlights with batteries, a portable radio, power banks, and a portable gas stove.
4. Investment Strategy to Hedge Against Inflation 💰
During inflation, the real value of cash declines. An investment strategy that beats inflation is necessary, focusing on risk diversification and real assets.
Gold Investment (Medium Risk)
A traditional inflation hedge, its value often rises during economic instability. Invest via Gold ETFs or physical gold bars.
High-Dividend Stocks (Medium Risk)
Offsets inflation with stable dividend income. Invest in individual stocks or dividend ETFs.
Dollar Assets (Low Risk)
Hedges against the devaluation of the local currency. Invest via dollar deposits or foreign ETFs.
5. Comprehensive Roadmap: Getting Started Now 🗺️
Create a systematic and actionable plan. It's important to set priorities and execute them step-by-step.
5 Things You Can Start Today
- Start an emergency fund account.
- Purchase KF94 masks.
- Create an essentials checklist.
- Open an investment account for dollar/gold assets.
- Hold a family meeting to share the plan.
"It's not just that the prepared survive, but that they become stronger in the process of preparing. We can become wiser and more resilient." – Disaster Preparedness Expert
⚠️ This article is for informational purposes only. Investment decisions should be made with caution.