New York State officials have issued stay-alert warnings for beachgoers as sharks return to the region's coastal waters in anticipation of the busy Fourth of July weekend. The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has provided updated guidance aimed at reducing the risk of human-shark interactions, reminding the public that 13 shark species are migrating back to the area.
This annual migration, typically occurring from June through September, coincides with rising ocean temperatures. Sightings often peak around the Fourth of July as sharks and their prey, such as bunker fish, move closer to the shore. This year, a nine-foot white shark was already spotted off Long Island's South Shore in May.
"Human-shark interactions are rare here, but DEC urges beachgoers and water enthusiasts to follow shark safety guidelines to reduce risk and help keep New Yorkers safe this summer," said Martin Gary, DEC Director of Marine Resources.
Authorities are advising beachgoers to avoid areas with visible seals, schools of fish, or diving seabirds, steer clear of murky water, and refrain from swimming at dawn, dusk, or at night. Swimmers, surfers, and paddlers are also encouraged to stay in groups, remain close to shore, and always comply with instructions from lifeguards and park staff.
Last year, New York recorded one confirmed unprovoked shark bite on June 27 at Jones Beach State Park, where a swimmer sustained minor, non-life-threatening leg injuries. Despite this single incident, shark sightings were frequent throughout the summer of 2025, with expanded marine patrols and drone surveillance identifying numerous sharks near Long Island and New York City beaches.
Nationally, 28 shark attacks were reported in 2025, with Florida experiencing the majority at 15 incidents. New York's single bite represented a notable decrease from higher shark activity observed along its coastline in 2022 and 2023.
Governor Kathy Hochul stated in May that New York State is enhancing its surveillance capabilities to monitor for dangerous conditions and protect beachgoers. "We continue to improve our surveillance capabilities to monitor for dangerous conditions and help protect beachgoers. I encourage all visitors to remain alert and adhere to the guidance of lifeguards and park staff when visiting the beach," she said.
This summer, state officials have significantly increased shark surveillance efforts. Lifeguards, Park Police, and park employees are utilizing drones to scan the water for sharks and baitfish aggregations. A total of 47 drone operators are currently certified across Long Island State Parks, with an additional 20 expected to be certified by the Fourth of July, bringing the total to 67. The state has also added 16 new drones, increasing the fleet to 46 aircraft for peak beach season surveillance.
Experts caution that shark activity can change rapidly and remains unpredictable. "It's unpredictable what's going to happen this season. That's what makes scientific research so interesting and intriguing and exciting - there are still so many answers that we don't know about," said Frank Quevedo, an environmental scientist and executive director of the South Fork Natural History Museum.