[REVISION HISTORY]

El Niño marine surge off California

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2026-08-22 02:58 UTC → 2026-08-27 14:51 UTC · added ~~removed~~

A strong El Niño event in late July 2026 warmed Pacific waters off California, drawing unusual marine species closer to shore. Scientists reported an uptick in great-white shark sightings and the appearance of the tropical yellow-bellied sea snake, with isolated incidents of bites near Santa Monica and San Diego. Douglas McCauley of the Benioff Ocean Initiative noted, “We expect to see all kinds of weird tropical things come up with this warm water.” By early August, the El Niño pattern intensified, prompting a larger influx of young great-white sharks and expanding the list of species to include tiger, bull, and hammerhead sharks. Researchers warned that this “shark summer” could increase encounters for fishermen, surfers, and beachgoers. The presence of highly venomous yellow-banded sea snakes and rising stingray injuries added further risk. By mid-August, the surge in stingray activity reached record levels. At Bolsa Chica and Huntington State beaches, more than 3,100 sting incidents were recorded in 2026, nearly doubling the 2025 total. In San Diego, over 900 stings were documented in the first half of the year, surpassing previous five-year records. Marine biologists attribute this influx of subtropical species, such as round stingrays, to the marine heatwave and El Niño. By late August, the phenomenon continued as a rare smooth hammerhead shark was filmed near Malibu Pier. Humpback whales have also been observed near Newport Beach and Palos Verdes, drawn by the movement of warm-water anchovies and krill. NOAA noted that this is only the third recorded instance of such a broad span of coastal water remaining warm for this duration. By the end of August, researchers from the Shark Lab at California State University Long Beach reported that great white shark activity has become exceptionally frequent, with approximately 20 animals recorded per day at certain beaches.

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