Shark Attacks in Florida: Beachgoers Urged to Stay Alert After Three Swimmers Injured
Shark attacks in Florida have left beachgoers on the state's Gulf Coast on high alert. Three swimmers were injured in two separate incidents in Walton County on Friday.
Two Separate Shark Attacks Leave Three Swimmers Injured
The first attack occurred around 1:20 PM near WaterSound Beach. A 45-year-old woman was critically injured after being bitten by a shark. She suffered severe wounds to her hip and lower left arm, which required amputation at the hospital according to Fire Chief Ryan Crawford, as reported by CBS News.
Sharks attack three swimmers off Florida beaches https://t.co/kunmLNbUbg
— BBC News (World) (@BBCWorld) June 9, 2024
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Just over two hours later, a second shark attack occurred near Seacrest Beach. This time, two 15-year-old girls were attacked while wading in waist-deep water.
One teen sustained serious injuries to her upper leg and hand, while the other suffered minor foot injuries.
Authorities Increase Patrols After Shark Attacks in Florida
Following the shark attacks in Florida, authorities have taken action to ensure beachgoer safety. The Florida Gulf Coast shoreline is being patrolled by boat, and while beaches have reopened, purple flags are now displayed to warn of dangerous marine life.
On Saturday, the Walton County Sheriff's Office reported seeing a 14-foot hammerhead shark off Santa Rosa Beach during their patrols. They emphasized on social media that such sightings are "not uncommon" in the area.
Staying Safe in Florida Waters After Shark Attacks
Authorities are urging swimmers and beachgoers to exercise caution and remain aware of their surroundings due to the constant presence of sharks in the Gulf. The University of Florida's International Shark Attack File (ISAF) reports that globally, there are roughly 70 to 100 shark attacks annually, with an average of five fatalities.
In Florida, most shark attacks in Florida involve requiem sharks, known to thrive in warm waters. These include species like bull sharks and blacktip sharks.
Shark attacks are more frequent in shallow, nearshore waters, particularly around sandbars. These areas can trap sharks during low tide as they hunt for food, which may have been a factor in Friday's attacks according to the Bay County Sheriff's Office.
The timing of these incidents, occurring in the middle of the afternoon, was also unusual as noted by Walton County Sheriff Michael Adkinson, according to CBS News.
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