Florida authorities warn of shark dangers along Gulf Coast beaches after 3 people are attacked

Authorities are using boats to patrol the ocean and warning swimmers about sharks this weekend along Florida's Gulf Coast, where three people were hurt in two separate shark attacks on Friday.

The attacks off beaches in the Florida Panhandle led authorities to temporarily close several beaches to swimmers on Friday. Beaches were reopened Saturday, with flags warning of high hazards.

SWFD lifeguards are flying red and purple flags on 6/8/24 out of an abundance of caution due to Friday’s incidents.

It is important to us that beach patrons recognize and understand the risk of the open water as it pertains not just to surf hazards, but marine life.

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— South Walton Fire District (@swfdinfo) June 8, 2024

In Walton County, the sheriff's office, fire department and the state's wildlife agency were working together to patrol the water with boats and the shore with vehicles, the South Walton Fire District said in an update Saturday.

Both of Friday's attacks happened in Walton County. "Please swim carefully today, respect the Gulf, stay hydrated, and look out for your loved ones," the fire department said on social media.