Shark expert Forest Galante explains that no matter where you are in the ocean, there is probably a shark within a quarter-mile of you. He says that warmer sea temperatures are moving sharks into new areas we haven’t seen them before.
WALTON COUNTY, Fla. – A swimmer was transported to a local medical center in the Florida Panhandle after deputies received a report that the victim was injured during an encounter with a shark on Friday afternoon along a beach in Walton County.
The incident happened north of Seacrest Beach in the Panama City Beach region of the Panhandle.
Photos from the scene show a woman being escorted from the beach by paramedics on what was a hot day across much of the Sunshine State.
The Walton County Sheriff’s Office did not state how significant the woman’s injuries were believed to be before she was transported to an area hospital.
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The Walton County Sheriff’s Office said a swimmer was transported to a local hospital after a woman was injured during an encounter with a shark.
(Walton County Sheriff’s Office / FOX Weather)
Local residents said double red flags are now flying, which means the Gulf of Mexico is closed to swimmers.
Authorities did not say how long they expect the waters to be closed or if they have received additional reports of sharks along the coast.
“We are encouraging beachgoers to be cognizant that lifeguards and beach deputies may be trying keep people out of the water in the immediate area,” the sheriff’s office said.
If the encounter is considered a bona fide shark attack, it would only be Walton County’s second in history, according to the Florida Museum of Natural History’s International Shark Attack File.
According to the ISAF, Florida reported 16 shark attacks in 2023, which was the highest concentration in the U.S.
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The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission says swimmers and surfers should always avoid being in the water during twilight hours when sharks are most active.
Beachgoers are always advised not to enter the water if they have an open wound or are wearing shiny jewelry – both can attract sharks due to their acute senses.