Shoresides

The Carolina Beach Shark Invasion That Wasn't—And What It Reveals About a Vital Emergency Information Network

Rend Smith Season 5 Episode 22

Send us a text

When a false shark sighting shut down Carolina Beach, the confusion that followed revealed something deeper: how much we rely on the local National Weather Service office and its communication networks to keep coastal communities safe. In this episode, Shoresides speaks with Stephen Pfaff, meteorologist-in-charge at the NWS-Wilmington, about the challenges of misinformation, the delicate partnerships that power coastal safety alerts, and why clear, effective communication can save lives.

Links:

Statement issued after increased shark activity observed in Carolina Beach surf

https://www.wect.com/2025/07/07/statement-issued-after-increased-shark-activity-observed-carolina-beach-surf/

Miscommunication over shark activity causes confusion at Carolina Beach

https://www.wect.com/2025/07/08/miscommunication-over-shark-activity-causes-confusion-carolina-beach/

Support the show

www.shoresides.org

People on this episode

Podcasts we love

Check out these other fine podcasts recommended by us, not an algorithm.

Coastal Youth Media Artwork

Coastal Youth Media

Coastal Youth Media