Home / Weather / Sharks Spotted Near Myrtle Beach as Hurricane Erin Approaches
Sharks Spotted Near Myrtle Beach as Hurricane Erin Approaches
21 Aug
Summary
- Multiple shark sightings reported near Myrtle Beach shores
- Expert says hurricanes don't bring sharks closer to shore
- Dangerous waves and rip currents expected along East Coast
As Hurricane Erin continues to churn in the Atlantic, residents of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, have reported multiple shark sightings over the past weekend. This has led some to wonder if the approaching storm is causing the sharks to swim closer to shore.
However, according to Erin Burge, a marine biologist at Coastal Carolina University, hurricanes do not typically drive sharks towards the coastline. Instead, Burge explains that the presence of fish, not storms, is more likely to bring sharks closer to shore. Additionally, shark sightings tend to increase in September as the waters cool.
While the shark sightings may be concerning, the real threat from Hurricane Erin is the dangerous surf and life-threatening rip currents expected along the East Coast. Meteorologists have warned that the storm's impacts, including waves reaching over 10 feet, will continue through the remainder of the week, particularly in areas like North Carolina's Outer Banks.
Residents and beachgoers are urged to stay out of the water until conditions improve, as the National Weather Service has issued various coastal flood advisories and warnings. Despite the unlikely connection between the hurricane and the shark sightings, the public is advised to exercise caution and heed the warnings from local authorities as Erin continues to churn offshore.
