Great white shark sighting prompts Newport Beach water closures

Newport Beach Fire Department lifeguards confirmed a sighting of an approximately 8-foot great white shark circling a surfer at the beach off 35th Street on Thursday, authorities said. 

The sighting was reported around 1:15 p.m., prompting NBFD to clear the water one mile east and west of the shark’s last known location.

NBFD ordered a minimum four-hour closure, with tower and patrol lifeguards actively monitoring the area, as well as a flyover by the HB-1 helicopter. Beach closure signs and “shark sighted” warnings were posted.

The Orange County Sheriff’s Department was also alerted and dispatched a surveillance vessel, while the Newport Beach Lifeguard Sea Watch rescue vessel was deployed. Neighboring lifeguard agencies were informed of the sighting.

Shark sightings are rare along the Newport Beach coastline, officials said, noting that these animals are typically just transiting through the area. 

“Out of an abundance of caution, we ask that the public avoid the water in this vicinity until the all-clear is issued,” lifeguards said.

Multiple surfers reported witnessing the shark off Tower 44 this afternoon.