A great white shark up to 10ft long shut down a California beach after it was seen feasting on a sea lion carcass just off the coast.
Parts of Huntington Beach was closed for 48 hours on Wednesday from 10am after lifeguards spotted the predator near Sunset Beach.
The beast was seen thrashing in the surf and displayed aggressive behavior close to shore, according to the Huntington Beach Fire Department Marine Safety Division.
Officials wasted no time, shutting down the water for a mile in both directions from North Pacific Avenue and 12th Street for a full 48 hours.
In an Instagram announcement, they cautioned that, in addition to the inherent danger posed by a great white shark in the area, the risk increases when they are actively feeding on large prey.
Fortunately, no injuries or close calls were reported.
Beachgoers were urged to obey posted closure signs and check with lifeguards as needed.
Experts have been warning that shark sightings on the Southern California coast are becoming more frequent, and insane footage of them swimming inches from surfers illustrates the danger.
In what seems to be drone footage posted April 15, an individual on a purple board with a paddle in hand is riding a small wave at Manhattan Beach.
Right before the wave ride, one can see a shark lurking right beneath the water’s surface directly underneath the surfer.
Southern California is an ideal spot for young sharks, with suitable water temperature and ample prey.
Recent encounters are already raising concerns along the coast.
In Newport Beach, ocean access was temporarily halted in March after a surfer spotted a shark gliding beneath her, circling just below her board.
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