A dead whale that washed up on Rockaway Beach in Queens, New York, on Thursday may explode, authorities have warned, adding that curious passersby should keep a 300-foot distance. The release of methane gas inside the decomposing mammal’s body could result in a build-up of pressure, and eventually an explosion, experts say. “The best way to assist these animals, and keep them and yourself safe, is by calling trained responders and maintaining a 150-foot distance from dolphins and porpoises and a 300-foot distance from whales,” according to the Atlantic Marine Conservation Society (AMSEAS). “It is important to remember that whales in the surf are still dangerous, even when deceased.” AMSEAS has identified the animal, which is about 40 feet long, as a male Sei whale, which is an endangered species due to commercial whaling in the 18th and 19th centuries. AMSEAS said it would be conducting a necropsy examination on Friday.
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