No Swimming At Newport Beach After Shark Bite
NEWPORT BEACH (CBSLA.com) — Lifeguards are warning everyone to stay out of the water along a mile-and-a-half stretch of Newport beach. Signs are posted prohibiting swimming and surfing after a woman was believed to have been bitten Sunday by a shark off Corona del Mar State Beach.
The woman was swimming about 4:15 Sunday afternoon when she flagged down a lifeguard boat. The victim was bleeding and had bite marks on her torso and legs. She was taken to Orange County Global Medical Center, where she underwent surgery. She is expected to recover.
A hospital spokesman confirmed Monday the woman had suffered a shark bites.
Nobody will be allowed in the water near Corona del Mar State Beach until at least Tuesday.
"They already warned us four times," said one beach visitor.
Sharks have been sighted this year near Huntington Beach, San Onofre, Seal Beach, San Clemente and Dana Point, according to the Shark Rescue Committee.
Scientists say El Nino could be the reason for an increase in shark sightings. The warmer waters don't necessarily mean more sharks off the California coast, but the conditions can bring sharks closer to shore as they hunt for food.
According to experts, to avoid sharks, don't swim or surf alone. Dolphins and seabirds can be a warning sign, because they eat the same food sharks do. Also, avoid spots where people are fishing as the bait can lure sharks. Finally, don't get into the water if you're bleeding.