Officials in Huntington Beach, California, closed a stretch of coastline between Seapoint and the pier after receiving what they called a "credible report" of a 10-12ft great white shark circling near a lifeguard tower. According to the city's marine safety division's shark response protocols, such behavior is considered aggressive.
The Orange County beach, popular with surfers and swimmers, saw warning signs posted and lifeguards instructed visitors to stay out of the water. "Please follow all posted signs and instructions from lifeguards. Public safety remains our top priority," the city's fire department said in a statement.
California experienced an unusually high number of great white sharks over the summer as juveniles fled warm waters in Mexico amid El Niño, though experts said humans should not be alarmed. The state's department of fish and wildlife notes that shark bites are extremely rare in California, with fewer than 250 incidents since 1950 and fewer than 20 fatal. Scientists describe most incidents as "exploratory bites" when sharks investigate unusual objects such as kayaks.
The closure will remain in effect through Wednesday afternoon as officials continue to monitor the area.