Cape Town - The City of Cape Town warned beach users on Tuesday of increased shark movement in the coming summer months.
This was the time of year when a seasonal increase was expected in shark activity inshore, spokesman Gregg Oelofse said.
In a statement, he said this seasonal change was not unique to False Bay.
“Similar trends are recorded in Gansbaai, Mossel Bay and California - all areas that white sharks are known to frequent.”
He said sightings by Shark Spotters had consistently shown increased activity from September to April, peaking in mid-summer.
“White sharks are present in the Cape's waters all year round, and the possibility of encountering one of these animals at any time is minimal. However, beach users should always remain vigilant.”
Kayakers and surf-skiers were asked to be cautious between Sunnycove and Glencairn Beach, and swimmers were urged not to enter the water off Jaegers Walk, in Fish Hoek, as this was considered a high-risk area.
He said the city had erected warning signs along Jaegers Walk.
“Surfers are asked to be especially vigilant in the areas between the Sunrise Beach and Macassar Beach area during the summer months, as research has shown these to be areas of highest shark presence in False Bay in summer.” - Sapa