Shark Sighting Near Lido Beach, Swimming Closed, Officials Say

LONG ISLAND, NY — A shark has been spotted near Lido Beach on Thursday morning, officials said.

The Town of Hempstead has "red-flagged" or closed swimming at nearby beaches, including Lido Beach, Point Lookout, Malibu Beach, and Nickerson Beach.

The shark was spotted at 11:15 a.m., most likely by a town lifeguard, Director of Communications Brian Devine told Patch.

After a 1-hour wait period, if there are no further shark sightings, beachgoers can enter the water again, abiding by New York State's guidelines, Devine explained.

Swimming will slowly be introduced, not allowing people to fully be submerged in the water until deemed safe by New York State protocol, he said.

Devine said the town has had 10 shark sightings so far this year.

Residents can view updates and find more information on the Town's social media page.