In recent weeks, there has been an increase in drowning cases among those entering the water to cool off in Lake Van. This year, 19 people who entered the lake, pond, stream and irrigation canals in Van have unfortunately drowned and lost their lives. Experts are warning citizens by drawing attention to the current systems in Lake Van.
Lake Van is a large ecosystem with a surface area of 3,712 square kilometers and a maximum depth of 461 meters. There are 5 main current systems in Lake Van. Among these systems, a counterclockwise current in Tatvan Bay, a current flowing south in Lake Van Bay, and currents in Çarpanak Island and Erciş Bay stand out. These currents can become even stronger and dangerous, especially in windy weather.
YYU Faculty of Fisheries Academician Dr. Mustafa Akkuş emphasizes that the number of safe beaches around Lake Van should be increased, and that the points where people enter the water should be made clear and that lifeguards should be present at every beach.
Strong Currents in Lake Van Are Visible from Space!
In the online photo contest called ‘World Tournament’ organized by the US Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the Van Lake photo taken from space by Astronaut Kate Rubins won first place. In this photo, the main currents in the lake can be clearly seen. The currents in the lake are especially evident on the Erciş side.
According to Dr. Akkuş, when the Zilan, Deliçay and Bendimahi streams flow into Lake Van, large whirlpools are formed in the Gulf of Erciş and strong currents occur. These currents move at different speeds and directions in different parts of the lake. Especially on the Çarpanak Island side, the depth increases rapidly, which increases the intensity of the currents.
