Humpback whale strands on beach in Icapuí, Brazil

A dead humpback whale, approximately 13 meters long, has washed ashore at Praia da Redonda in Icapuí, Ceará. The animal was first spotted drifting about three kilometers from the coast on Thursday before beaching on Friday.

Videos circulating on social media show a man climbing on top of the carcass, an act that experts have warned is extremely dangerous. Katherine Fiedler Choi, a coordinator for the NGO Aquasis, noted that decomposing whales of this size can accumulate gases that may cause the body to explode under pressure. Additionally, experts warned of public health risks due to potential diseases.

The NGO Aquasis is working with local authorities to investigate the cause of death, noting possible bite marks on the animal. The organization is coordinating with the Icapuí City Hall to manage the complex removal and burial of the carcass, which will require heavy machinery and favorable weather conditions.