Recent spike in shark attacks reported off Carolinas coast

WILMINGTON, NC (AP) — Shark experts have a not-so-reassuring explanation for a recent spate of attacks along the coast of the Carolinas: It’s mainly because so many people are getting in the water.

Six shark attacks were recorded in June in North Carolina waters. The two most recent victims had to be flown to a hospital in Virginia for treatment. That’s more attacks than North Carolina has recorded in any single year dating to 2000. But George Burgess, director of the Florida Program for Shark Research, says it’s all a matter of perspective. He notes there have already been 11 attacks in Florida, and there were 28 last year.

Burgess notes North Carolina and Florida both have lengthy coasts that attract tourists, although people are typically in the water for more months in Florida.

(Copyright 2015 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)