Overview
- Pacific Grove police closed Lovers Point Beach after Hopkins Marine Station staff reported a dead whale floating near the shoreline.
- Authorities said the closure was issued out of an abundance of caution to protect public health and safety while conditions are assessed.
- Police warned that marine mammal carcasses can attract sharks, particularly larger predatory species, and cited that risk as the main reason for the restriction.
- City officials said they are working with appropriate partner agencies to monitor the scene and will provide updates as assessments continue.
- Residents and visitors were asked to avoid the closed area and follow posted signs, and officials have not released a cause of death or a plan for removing the carcass.