What to Expect This Summer: Increased Shark Sightings at Southern California Beaches
Surge in Shark Sightings Expected Along Southern California Coast
Southern California is experiencing an unusually high number of shark sightings, with experts predicting that this trend will continue throughout the warmer months.
Researchers report that the increased sightings are being noted along SoCal beaches, where the rise in temperature is contributing to the presence of these marine animals.
On Friday, NBC Los Angeles visited Pacific Palisades and spoke with beachgoers in an area known for heightened shark activity, particularly during sunset hours. Many observers noted that the presence of sharks is more prevalent right now, often without swimmers being aware of how close they might be.
Malibu-based artist Carlos Gauna, who captures drone footage of sharks along local beaches, confirmed this year’s surge in shark activity. “This year, there’s been a big uptick in sharks,” he stated, as he demonstrated the effectiveness of his drone to scout the waters, spotting a white shark approximately 150 yards offshore. “If you put your foot in the water, you’re likely going to be around a shark here in Southern California,” Gauna added, emphasizing the frequency of sightings, even in close proximity to surfers.
On Thursday, lifeguards from the Newport Beach Fire Department confirmed a sighting of an 8-foot great white shark circling a surfer near 35th Street. As a precaution, they closed access to the water one mile in both directions for four hours and posted warnings.
Chris Lowe, director of the Shark Lab at California State University Long Beach, shared that this year’s increase in shark sightings is notable even so early in the season. “We started seeing baby white sharks about four-and-a-half feet long about a month ago, which is really early,” Lowe remarked, attributing this phenomenon to unusually warm water temperatures for this time of year.
Looking forward, researchers anticipate that conditions such as a strong El Niño and a marine heat wave from the Pacific Northwest will likely draw more sharks to the SoCal coast. “Based on that, we predict it’s going to be a very sharky summer,” Lowe forecasted.
Despite the frequency of sightings, experts emphasize that shark attacks remain rare. “We’re not food and we’re not a threat, so we’re just something to ignore,” Lowe explained. However, he advises local beachgoers to take precautions, including swimming in groups, avoiding dawn and dusk swimming, and choosing beaches with lifeguard presence to enhance safety.
