His lungs vibrating from the force of the noise, Murray surfaced to look for an approaching ship, but saw none. Some scientists, activists, and a large coalition of environmental groups lead by the NRDC are concerned that LFAS could injure or kill marine mammals, and even harm humans. Several people also claim they have been hurt and perhaps permanently disabled. OMI researchers have never observed or heard of any incident comparable in nine years of research in the Hawaiian Islands. Although Navy researchers believe the OMI's claims were not documented sufficiently enough to verify them, this incident adds to concern that LFAS may disorient whales and disrupt vocal communication between mothers and calves.
Humans are vulnerable as well.
According to a Navy document, after being exposed to 160 decibels of LFAS for 15 minutes, a Navy diver suffered dizziness, confusion, and tingling in the arms. Months later, the diver complained of ongoing memory loss, depression, and seizures. In 1998, eco-tour guide Chris Reid experienced similar symptoms, both short and long term, after being exposed to 125 decibels during LFAS testing in Hawaii. And Jay Murray has suffered from sleep disturbances and depression, maladies he believes are connected to LFAS exposure. All letters to the editor are for publication and may be edited for length and clarity.