The divers revealed the terrifying reality of what happens if you accidentally hear an active submarine sonar while underwater
Humans face disastrous consequences and risks if they accidentally hear an active submarine Sonar.
Sonar technology is crucial for submarines and underwater exploration. However, hearing active submarine sonar while underwater can be hazardous to human health.
What is Sonar technology?
Sonar stands for Sound Navigation and Ranging.
It is a system that uses sound waves to map and explore underwater environments.
Submarines rely heavily on sonar for navigation and locating objects, such as missing submarines or underwater creatures like the Loch Ness Monster.
Sonar technology is essential for mapping large bodies of water, searching for wrecks, and even locating objects in the deep sea.
It’s been instrumental in major search operations, such as the search for the Titan sub and the discovery of large masses in Loch Ness.
How does Sonar works ?
Sonar works by emitting sound pulses or signals from transducers into the water.
When these pulses hit an object, they bounce back, creating an “echo” that helps operators identify what the object might be.
This process is crucial for navigation and searching because light doesn’t travel well underwater, but sound does.
What would happen if you hear active submarine sonar?
While Sonar technology is useful, it can also be dangerous.
When Sonar pulses are emitted at high intensities, they can have harmful effects on the human body.
Active sonar is typically inaudible to humans, but if a swimmer or diver accidentally encounters these pulses, they may experience serious health issues.
In November 2023, Australian divers were exposed to high-intensity sonar from a Chinese vessel, the PLA-N destroyer.
Despite warnings, the ship continued to operate its sonar at a close range, causing the divers to sustain minor injuries. The sonar pulses were strong enough to affect their health, forcing them to leave the water.
Marles said: “Soon after, it was detected operating its hull-mounted sonar in a manner that posed a risk to the safety of the Australian divers who were forced to exit the water.
“The divers sustained minor injuries, likely due to being subjected to the sonar pulses from the Chinese destroyer.”
Humans face physical risks and symptoms if they accidentally hear active submarine sonar.
Humans may experience several physical symptoms if exposed to high levels of active submarine sonar.
They may experience symptoms including dizziness, disorientation, temporary memory loss, concentration problems, and hearing loss..
Additionally, Marine bioacoustics scientists warn that stronger sonar pulses, particularly those exceeding 210dB, can rupture the lungs or cause fatal brain hemorrhaging.
Divers who encounter active Sonar underwater may hear a mid-to-high pitch sound. This signal can serve as a warning that they are in danger and should resurface immediately.
Sonar technology plays a vital role in underwater exploration, but it comes with significant risks when exposed to humans at high intensities.
So, divers, swimmers, and submariners must be cautious around active Sonar systems.
In short. if you ever hear a ringing sound or feel disoriented while submerged, it’s crucial to exit the water to avoid serious health issues.