The livestock losses continue to grow as a record-breaking heat wave grips the Korean Peninsula. Farmers across the region face relentless temperatures that threaten their animals daily. They struggle to save their herds and flocks with every method available. Despite emergency measures, the damage to farms is already severe.
In North Pyongan province, large farms and small households report heartbreaking animal deaths. One farm in Tasa village, Yomju county, lost more than half of its 30 pigs. Residents say the heat feels unending, with no relief in sight. Animals kept in small, poorly ventilated sheds suffer the most.
Chickens have died in large numbers alongside pigs, while ducks fare better due to access to water. The housing for most livestock offers little airflow and no cooling systems. This leaves animals completely exposed to the punishing heat. Farmers work long hours to keep them alive. Every loss reduces their ability to recover in the future.
Some farms have appealed to local power authorities for priority electricity. They hope to run cooling equipment to protect their animals. Farmers also hang ice packs inside sheds and spray water on livestock to lower body temperatures. These efforts show their desperation to prevent more deaths. However, the heat continues to push animals to the brink.
The livestock losses also affect small-scale farmers raising only a few animals. Many have lost chickens or pigs, though free-range animals survive better by finding shade and water. This small advantage has spared them from the worst losses. Yet, they still face constant stress and uncertainty. Even minor losses can damage their fragile income.
Life in rural areas has become a battle for survival during the heat wave. Residents joke bitterly that humans serve pigs and chickens now. Farmers focus resources on cooling sheds, sometimes choosing animals over personal comfort. Fans run in pig houses even when families cannot afford to use them at home. This shows how deeply livestock determine a household’s survival.
The livestock losses highlight the vulnerability of the farming sector to extreme weather. Without better infrastructure, farmers will face similar disasters in future summers. Many already fear the coming years as climate patterns change. Unless improvements are made, extreme heat could wipe out livelihoods again. Communities continue to fight for their animals, but the heat offers no mercy.
