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Stingray Stings Surge in SoCal Waters
13 Aug
Summary
- Stingray incidents have doubled in Bolsa Chica and Huntington State Beaches this year.
- Warmer ocean temperatures are drawing more stingrays and people to shore.
- Lifeguards recommend shuffling feet to avoid stepping on stingrays.
Southern California beaches are facing a notable increase in stingray-related injuries, with incidents doubling at locations like Bolsa Chica and Huntington State Beaches. This rise is primarily linked to warmer ocean temperatures, which have consistently remained in the 60s, drawing more stingrays and people closer to shore.
Experts note that marine heat waves and climate change are contributing factors, making stingrays, a subtropical species, thrive at the edge of their range. Compounded by increased beach attendance post-pandemic, the encounters are becoming more frequent.
To mitigate these painful incidents, lifeguards are advising beachgoers to shuffle their feet when entering the water. This simple action often causes stingrays to move away, preventing stings from their sharp barbs. Some areas are even developing stingray advisories and promoting barb-resistant surf booties.
