Rockaway Beach reopens after temporarily closing due to shark sighting
NEW YORK - Rockaway Beach was reopened to swimmers Sunday, after temporarily closing on Saturday after yet another shark sighting in the area.
"After an aerial survey by @NYPDnews, Rockaway Beach is gain open for swimming today," the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation said in a tweet. "We will continue to regularly monitor the beach. For your safety, please swim only during regular beach hours (10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.) in places where a lifeguard is present."
Rockaway Beach had also closed earlier this week due to previous shark sightings.
Shark encounters have become a regular occurrence for New Yorkers and people on Long Island so far this summer.
"We understand there may be residual fear, but the presence of sharks in the ocean is the result of successful long-term conservation efforts and a sign of a healthy environment," the Department of Parks and Recreation continued. "Sharks are generally uninterested in humans, and shark attacks remain extremely rare."
Earlier this week, a 16-year-old surfer was bitten on the foot by a shark in the waters off of Fire Island.
An apparent Great White shark also washed ashore on Long Island.
Governor Kathy Hochul has ordered more drone and helicopter monitoring along the waters at Long Island State Park beaches in order to keep swimmers safe.