Surf City shark sighting occurs during New Jersey flooding

A violent nor’easter storm caused significant flooding along the U.S. East Coast, leading to a surreal sighting in Surf City, New Jersey. Residents captured video footage of a small shark swimming through flooded residential streets near a driveway on Long Beach Island.

Experts, including Dr. Greg Skomal from the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries, identified the animal as a smooth dogfish (Mustelus canis). Skomal noted that the species is common in these waters and is considered harmless to humans as it lacks sharp teeth.

The shark likely entered the neighborhood after storm surges caused Barnegat Bay to overflow, inundating parts of Surf City with up to four feet of water. While the shark sighting went viral, officials warned that the floodwaters themselves pose much greater risks due to potential debris, downed power lines, and strong currents.