After Four Shark Attacks in 48 Hours, Australia Shuts Dozens of Beaches

New York Times - WorldCenter-LeftEN 3 min read 100% complete by Laura ChungJanuary 20, 2026 at 08:12 AM

AI Summary

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Following four shark attacks in 48 hours, dozens of beaches in eastern Australia, particularly in Sydney, were closed on Tuesday, January 20, 2026. The attacks, described as "unprecedented," involved surfers and swimmers off the coasts of Sydney and Point Plomer Beach. Victims sustained injuries ranging from minor to life-changing. Authorities closed more than a dozen beaches in northern Sydney for two days, and others further north for 24 hours. Scientists attribute the increased shark activity to warmer ocean temperatures and runoff from heavy rainfall, which attracts prey. Bull sharks, known for their ability to swim in both fresh and salt water, are suspected to be responsible for the attacks in Sydney.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Palm Beach 30% Leonardo Guida 40% Australian Marine Conservation Society 40% Surf Life Saving New South Wales 50% Manly Beach ×250% Steve Pearce 50% Bull Sharks ×260% Point Plomer Beach ×260% Australia ×280% Sydney ×990%

Keywords

shark attacks 100% australia 80% beaches closed 70% sydney 70% bull sharks 60% surfer 60% lifeguard 50% ocean temperatures 40% marine environments 40%