Emerging Shark Attacks in California

Image via Dave J. Hogan / Getty Images

Stanford researchers estimate the likelihood of individuals experiencing a shark attack in California near impossible or at least very slim, predicting the occurrence to be a one-in-17 million chance. Shark attacks and major casualties have dropped a whopping 91% before 2014, easing the cost of wildlife hazards to scuba divers, surfers, and a majority of aquatic indulgences. 

Recent sightings have taken a toll on California’s residents and marine patrol, restricting beach territories and limiting public access to hazardous areas. Since 2014, shark attacks have been reported to receive a drastic influx, almost increasing exponentially. 

The first major incident was reported in San Diego–the city with the highest risk of shark attacks–to a middle-aged woman who faced severe laceration to her leg. 2015 was marked as the most dramatic year in terms of shark incidents with almost 100 cases reported and a 3100% increase from the average annual calculation of three attacks. 

Recent sightings and predictions from 2023 clarified the steady decrease in shark attacks, permitting sharks to no longer pose as a state-wide issue in California beaches. Coast guards and Southern California researchers deemed beaches safe for swimming and surfing again.

However, a reported shark attack on 46-year-old Caleb Adams in 2024 reopened investigations along California beaches. This swimmer found himself caught amongst the fangs of a six to seven-foot Great White Shark along the coast of Del Mar in San Diego. Facing severe injuries along his chest and arms, this incident was a public reminder that all individuals must be alert while in the waters. 

As 2024 came to an end, the peculiar event of two juvenile sharks spotted in the waters of Huntington Beach ignited a public dispute about the extent of their safety in accordance with the frequent sightings. During the summer season, it’s typical to witness larger marine life near the coast, bewildering Californians with their presence in mid-winter. 

In more recent terms, a seven-foot Great White was spotted by city spokesperson Jennifer Carey on the morning of March 5th at Huntington Beach. City officials took action and closed off the beach for 24 hours following her report while Marine Safety crews searched for the shark. Californians are left perplexed about their safety for the time being as local officials develop a solution to these challenges. 

George Burgess, curator of the ISAF data, remarks on the current issue in a University of Florida press release: "Sharks plus humans equals attacks. As our population continues to rapidly grow and shark populations slowly recover, we're going to see more interactions.” From this, civilians are left waiting to hear what’s in store for them and their favorite pastime.