Importance Score: 72 / 100 🔴
Rare Shark Attack off Israel Coast: Swimmer Missing Near Hadera
Authorities are currently searching for a swimmer who went missing following an exceptionally rare shark attack incident off the northern coast of Israel on Monday. The event occurred in the sea near Hadera, approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) north of Tel Aviv, marking a highly unusual occurrence in Israeli waters.
Incident Details and Location
The shark attack transpired in the waters adjacent to Hadera, a coastal city situated about 40km north of Tel Aviv. Eyewitnesses present on Olga Beach observed the unfolding incident. Social media footage captured the audible expressions of shock and alarm from bystanders witnessing the event from the shore.
Shark Presence and Behavior in the Area
It is known that sharks congregate in this specific area due to the discharge of warm water from a local power plant, especially prevalent during this time of year. However, despite their regular presence, these sharks are generally considered harmless and attacks remain infrequent.
Historical Context of Shark Attacks in Israel
Notably, there have been no previously recorded fatal shark attacks in the waters surrounding Israel since the nation’s founding in 1948. This incident is a stark deviation from the norm.
Search Operation and Beach Closure
Law enforcement has responded by closing Olga Beach to the public. A comprehensive search operation is actively underway to locate the missing swimmer.
Eyewitness Accounts and Video Evidence
Video footage circulating online shows an individual at a considerable distance from the shore, estimated to be several hundred feet out at sea. The video depicts the person struggling in the water as shouts from the beach indicate recognition of an ongoing attack.
“I was in the water, I saw blood and there were screams,” recounted Eliya Motai, a witness, to the Ynet news site. “I was just a few meters from the shoreline,” he stated, adding, “It’s terrifying. We were here yesterday and we saw sharks circling us.”
Local Shark Species and Attraction Factors
Dusky and sandbar sharks are known to be present in clusters within this region, particularly near the Orot Rabin power station, which is Israel’s largest power generation facility. These sharks are attracted to the area due to the warmer water temperatures released by the power plant and the presence of fish carried downstream from a nearby stream, creating a favorable environment for them.
Rarity of Shark Attacks in Israel
According to reports from Ynet, this recent event is only the fourth documented shark attack in Israel’s history. This underscores the exceedingly rare nature of such incidents along the Israeli coastline, making this event particularly noteworthy and concerning for local authorities and beachgoers.