Increase in shark attacks may be linked to climate change

Design by Alexandra Kolaya

On an unassuming Sunday afternoon, twelve-year-old Nico Antic went for a swim in his local beach in Sydney, Australia. But upon jumping into the water, he was attacked by what authorities believe to be a bull shark. He was rushed to the Sydney Children’s Hospital, where he sadly passed on Saturday, Jan. 24.

Between 1990 and 2000, the average number of shark attacks in Australia was 6.5 attacks per year. In the past 20 years, however, that number has increased rapidly, with 2025 witnessing a historic 21 shark attacks in a single year. 

This worrying trend appears to be continuing into 2026, with 5 unprovoked shark attacks so far, four of which happened in the span of just 48 hours. These drastic changes in sharks’ recent behavior have left people with one question: why? 

One potential explanation for the shark attacks could be an increase in rain. In the days before the 48-hour period in which 4 shark attacks occurred, there had been intense rainfall, with some areas receiving over 50 mm in just a few hours. 

The rain made the water much murkier, attracting small fish hoping to find food. This, in turn, attracted sharks. Unbeknownst to surfers and beachgoers from Sunday, Jan.18, to Tuesday, Jan. 20, a dangerous and volatile feeding ground was unfolding beneath the waves. 

However, a single instance of heavy rain does not explain why shark attacks generally have increased in recent years, suggesting that broader changes in weather patterns may also be playing a role. 

According to the University of New South Wales, human-caused global climate change has caused an increase in rainfall variability in over 75% of the Earth’s land area, with Australia being particularly affected. With dry seasons becoming drier, and wet seasons becoming wetter, it is likely that more extreme and unpredictable rainfall patterns may be contributing to the likelihood of shark attacks. 

Climate change has also caused ocean temperatures to rise. Sharks typically prefer colder waters. However, as water temperatures rise, sharks are forced to leave their usual habitats in search of cooler waters, pushing sharks closer to humans and increasing the risk of attacks. 

While these statistics might seem alarming, the solution is somewhat simple. Small but consistent efforts to reduce carbon emissions can have an impact. For example, turning off the lights when you leave a room or taking the stairs instead of the elevator can significantly reduce emissions if done consistently. By limiting our carbon footprints, we can help protect the ocean environment and reduce the conditions that are contributing to increased shark encounters.