Overview
- This week state agencies issued 'shark smart' guidance and increased beach monitoring to coincide with the June–September shark migration.
- The DEC says more than 13 shark species are moving through New York waterways this season, including great whites, hammerheads and basking sharks.
- Officials report no confirmed shark sightings at Long Island or Jones Beach so far this summer and are using drones, lifeguards and park police to watch for signs of sharks.
- Jones Beach lifeguards expanded their drone fleet to 46 aircraft and use them to spot large pods of baitfish, which often indicate nearby sharks.
- Agencies stress that interactions remain rare but urge swimmers to avoid seals and baitfish, stay close to shore, swim in groups and always follow lifeguard instructions; the measures aim to keep beaches open while reducing risk.