Home / Disasters and Accidents / Australia Shark Attacks: Beaches Shut After 4th Incident in 48 Hours
Australia Shark Attacks: Beaches Shut After 4th Incident in 48 Hours
20 Jan
Summary
- Four shark attacks occurred within 48 hours, leading to widespread beach closures.
- Poor water quality and heavy rains are cited as reasons for increased shark activity.
- Authorities urge people to avoid swimming in murky waters due to high risks.
Australia has seen a concerning spike in shark activity, with four reported attacks occurring within a 48-hour period. The most recent incident on Tuesday morning involved a 39-year-old surfer bitten near Point Plomer in New South Wales, sustaining minor injuries. This brings the total number of recent shark encounters to four across Sydney and its surrounding coasts since Sunday.
Authorities, including police, lifeguards, and marine experts, have issued urgent warnings about dangerous ocean conditions. Heavy rains have led to poor water quality and reduced visibility, creating an environment conducive to shark activity, particularly bull sharks. Steven Pearce of Surf Life Saving NSW advised avoiding the ocean altogether, recommending local pools instead.
Beaches have been closed, including those between Town Beach and Crescent Head, and all beaches across Sydney's northern beaches council area remain shut until at least Thursday. Scientists explain that weather conditions, such as storms and river outflows, carry nutrients into coastal waters, attracting prey and thus sharks. Climate-driven warming also contributes to sharks spending more time in coastal areas.
