As quoted by Robert Jackson Bennett, “Life is full of beautiful dangers, dangerous beauties…” These lakes listed in this article might probably look beautiful and would be perfect for Instagram. However, looks can be deceiving. It is certainly true when they say that what is beautiful to the eyes should remain untouchable. Here is a list of these deadly but beautiful lakes around the world that are absolutely breathtaking. You might want to jump in, but be cautious not to.
Lac de Gafsa, Tunisia
Located in Gafsa city of Tunisia, the lake is also known as the “Mysterious Lake” since it appeared out of nowhere in this desolate desert. Many of the locals were unclear of the formation of the lake and one of the most reasonable explanations could be that the water of the lake came from the water table, after the rock above it was destroyed from a minor earthquake which delivered water up to the surface. Although the lake may look harmless at first, never underestimate what lies underneath a clear, still water. It is said that the lake is contaminated with phosphates, which was found in the soil and rocks in the region. Phosphorus which is used to manufacture fertilizers, pesticides and detergents and more. Aside from that, phosphate is believed to leave behind a radioactive residue, meaning that the water contains this substance as well.
Monte Neme, Spain
This tantalising turquoise lake in Spain is known as Monte Neme, or Galician Chernobyl. As tempting as it is to jump into an idyllic lake, we reckon you not to do that for the sake of your safety. It’s not just a beautiful lake but it’s also a highly toxic waste dump which explains the water’s mesmerizing colour. Many ambitious explorers have taken their chances of swimming in the lake and ending up suffering from skin rashes, digestive system problem and vomiting. The actual form of the lake came from a mine extraction of wolfram where people created light bulb filaments using the iron-manganese tungstate during the First World War.
Siberian Seychelles, Russia
This brilliantly looking, blue lake in Russia proves to be hazardous to the health. The local authorities have urged visitors from going near or into the water as it contains high pH, dissolved salts of calcium and metal oxides. Aside from the water, visitors should also avoid having contact with the sand as it poses serious health risks. The lake is a dumping ground for ashes from the nearby power station. But since the forbidden fruit tastes the best, visitors who come all over the world just couldn’t miss their chance of capturing this beauty. A campaigner who had her shoot there was known to suffer from rashes, dry throat and nose. Also, visitors claimed that the sole of their sandals came off after taking the stroll along the waterline. While photographer Mikhail Reshetnikov states that the lake smells of laundry detergent, alkali.
The Boiling Lake, Dominica
Unlike other lakes that captured people’s attention with its striking turquoise colour, this flooded fumarole in Dominica, however, brings people to awe for actually being so hot. It measures at 82-92°C with bubbling greyish-blue water whereas the surface is covered in a cloud of vapour. The reason why this lake is always under the boiling state is that it is situated in a volcano crater and is constantly heated up by the hot steam and gases from the molten lava below. Turns out, the lake is the second-largest hot lake in the world that is around 76 meters.
Lake Natron, Tanzania
By looking at the colour of the lake, the statement “don’t mess with this lake” might float in your mind, like its eerie shade of the water, the lake natron has a peculiar way of showing its deadly feature. Aside from burning the skin and the eyes of animals which have trouble adapting to its high pH and temperature of water, Lake Natron takes care of these animal carcases in an unusual way by turning them into statues and washing them out onto the shore. These animals will still look as to how it is alive but without breathing. This is because of the combination of hydrogen and alkaline salt which create salt and limestone, preventing these organisms from rotting.
Ijen Crater, Indonesia
Known for its volcanic site, Indonesia has a wonderful view of a blue lake which has the highest acidic level. This lake is located on Java island and with its look, this lake is quite a sight. As for the turquoise blue water, it is a result of the excessive acidity and high soaring mass of dissolved metals. At the measure of 0.5 pH level, this lake is one for visitors to take a plunge. Adding to that, the temperature of the water is sky-high. The lake is especially famous for sulphur mining as miners will risk their lives just to earn some penny. What makes Ijen stand out is the intensive blue light show that is only visible at night. How it actually happens is the sulfur inside Injen will catch fire once it gets in contact with the air hence it burns with a striking blue flame.
Pictures by Pixabay, Ferreiro, Ilnar Salakhiev, Travel Den, Rove.me, Earth Porn & Indoindians