A woman was left fighting for her life Monday night after being attacked by a shark at Rockaway Beach.
According to the New York City Parks Department, the 65-year-old woman was bit by a shark in the leg while swimming Monday evening around 6 p.m. at Beach 59th Street. She was rushed to a hospital and remains in critical condition Tuesday morning.
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Police surveyed the area by helicopter and said they did not observe sharks in the water. NYC Parks say swimmers can expect more surveillance overhead on Tuesday. Rockaway Beach will be closed Tuesday.
A statement from NYC Parks reads, "We want to remind New Yorkers that shark bites in Rockaway are extremely rare. We remain vigilant in monitoring the beach and always clear the water when a shark is spotted."
MORE: Tips on how to avoid confrontation with sharks while swimming in the ocean
The Department of Environmental Conservation reminds New Yorkers to avoid swimming at dusk, dawn, or nighttime, and to always swim close to shore where your feet can touch the ground. They also recommend to swim in groups and avoid areas frequented by seals.
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