Navy jet noise could mean long-term health impacts for Whidbey Island
A recent study by the University of Washington reveals that over 74,000 residents of Whidbey Island are at risk of long-term health impacts from U.S. Navy jet noise, which has been a regular occurrence for more than a decade. The study, published in the Journal of Exposure Science and Environmental Epidemiology, emphasizes that noise from Boeing EA-18G Growlers poses a significant health risk to two-thirds of Island County residents.
Lead author Gio Jacuzzi, from UW's College of Environment, highlighted that communities in Oak Harbor, Coupeville, and 85% of the Swinomish Reservation experience noise levels exceeding 100 decibels, akin to a rock concert. The impacts include sleep disturbance, hearing impairment, cardiovascular risks, delayed childhood learning, stress, and annoyance.
Despite ongoing community and legal debates sparked by the noise, the Naval Air Station Whidbey Island declined to comment due to pending litigation. The station has faced criticism and legal challenges following an increase in flight operations without fully assessing noise impacts.
The study analyzed data from 2020 and 2021, mapping noise exposure across the region and using WHO-recommended models to predict health outcomes. Researchers underscored the need for the Navy to reassess its training operations and schedules to mitigate public health impacts while maintaining national security interests.
Jacuzzi plans further research involving door-to-door interviews with residents to gather firsthand experiences, urging the Navy to engage openly with affected communities for effective mitigation strategies.