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Shark sightings trigger intermittent swimming closures at Rockaway Beach
By
Phil Corso
Published Jul 2, 2026
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Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images
By
Phil Corso
Published Jul 2, 2026
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New York City officials warned beachgoers on Thursday to expect intermittent closures at Rockaway Beach after multiple shark sightings were reported off the Queens shoreline.
In a notification issued shortly before 1 p.m., New York City Emergency Management said the temporary closures could continue throughout the day and urged visitors to follow the guidance of lifeguards and on-site beach staff.
The advisory came as officials across the region respond to shark activity. Earlier Thursday, officials said the sight of a 9-foot-long shark at Town Park Point Lookout in Nassau County prompted a temporary closure.
Town of Hempstead officials said the beaches reopened after lifeguards monitored the shoreline and safety protocols were followed in coordination with Nassau County officials.
The latest sightings come a year after shark-related beach closures in New York City increased sharply, driven largely by expanded drone surveillance.
Swimmers should expect temporary closures when sharks are detected and wait for lifeguards to reopen the water before returning, authorities said.
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new york city
public safety
queens
Phil Corso
Phil Corso is the evening news editor at WNYC/Gothamist. Got a tip? Email [email protected].
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