NewsFox 5 San Diego & KUSI — Local NewsAugust 18, 2026San Diego
El Niño conditions extend shark presence along Southern California coast
Warmer ocean temperatures caused by a strong El Niño are expected to keep shark populations near Southern California beaches for a longer duration than in typical years. This climate pattern has also triggered new protective measures for endangered loggerhead sea turtles currently impacted by the Pacific heatwave.
Read the full story at Fox 5 San Diego & KUSI — Local NewsWhy It Matters
Residents and beachgoers may encounter sharks more frequently and later into the season than usual due to shifting ocean temperatures.
Key Facts
- Strong El Niño conditions are causing record-breaking water temperatures in the Pacific.
- Juvenile white sharks and hammerheads are expected to remain near the Southern California coast for an extended period.
- New protections have been established for endangered loggerhead sea turtles.
- The Pacific heatwave is identified as the primary driver for the shift in marine species behavior.
Who's Mentioned
organizationCenter for Biological Diversity“Advocated for the closure of fishing areas to protect sea turtles.”personJack Elstner“PhD candidate and shark expert.”organizationNational Weather Service Climate Prediction Center“Issued the forecast regarding the strength and duration of El Niño.”otherEl Niño“The climatic phenomenon driving warmer ocean temperatures.”organizationNOAA Fisheries“Responsible for managing fishing closures.”locationSouthern California“The geographic area affected by the El Niño climate pattern.”organizationScripps Institution of Oceanography“Provided data on water temperatures and shark migration patterns.”organizationCalifornia State University Long Beach Shark Lab“Monitors juvenile white shark populations.”