Last Update: 08/01/2026 at 11:00 AM EST
NYPD Uses Drones To Monitor Sharks At NYC Beaches
Coverage from CBS News New York, DroneXL, and others
Articles
5
Days Since Update
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The Story

The NYPD's Technical Assistance Response Unit is using drones during lifeguard hours to monitor sharks and surf conditions at four New York City beaches, with Rockaway Beach receiving particular attention. Operators relay confirmed shark locations to lifeguards and Parks Department staff, who temporarily clear swimmers under established closure protocols. The program adds aerial detection and rescue capability, though more reported sightings and closures do not by themselves show that the shark population has increased.
First Article: 07/31/26
Latest Article: 07/31/26
The Bigger Picture
Articles in this story are part of a shaping these topics.
Articles
07-31-2026
DroneXL
The NYPD used daily drone patrols at four New York City beaches this summer to detect sharks and direct lifeguard warnings and closures.
07-31-2026
New York Post
The NYPD uses drones at New York City beaches in July to detect sharks, monitor swimmers, and support lifeguards and rescue operations.
07-30-2026
CBS News New York / John Dias
The NYPD is using drones this summer at four New York City beaches, including Rockaway Beach, to detect sharks and alert lifeguards.
07-30-2026
ABC7 New York
The NYPD used drones at Rockaway Beach in Queens to identify sharks, notify Parks Department officials, close swimming areas, and support swimmer rescues during the 2020s beach season.
07-30-2026
FOX Weather
The NYPD Technical Assistance Response Unit used camera-equipped drones during summer patrols at New York City beaches to detect sharks and support lifeguards and rescues.
