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Fort Lauderdale, FL - A shark sighting near the shoreline at Fort Lauderdale Beach caused a temporary panic Thursday as beachgoers were seen rushing out of the water while lifeguards quickly cleared the area.
NBC Miami reports the incident unfolded just steps away from the setup for the Florida Panthers Stanley Cup celebration, scheduled to take place over the weekend.
Aerial footage from local news helicopters captured the moment the shark swam alarmingly close to swimmers in waist-deep water, including two children.
Ocean Rescue teams confirmed the presence of the shark and cleared the water for approximately 30 minutes as a precaution.
Lifeguards monitored the scene closely until it was deemed safe for people to return to the ocean.
A man who was in the water at the time said it was a small shark, describing it as “no big deal,” but confirmed lifeguards quickly ordered everyone out.
He, like many others, waited on the shore until the all-clear was given.
Officials have not identified the species of the shark, but they emphasized that sightings like this, while attention-grabbing, are not out of the ordinary for the region.
Juvenile sharks are known to enter shallow water in search of food, especially during warmer months.
No injuries were reported, and the swift response by lifeguards ensured the safety of all beach visitors.
Authorities continue to remind the public to stay alert, follow lifeguard instructions, and avoid swimming at dawn or dusk when shark activity tends to increase.