FLORIDA, June 9: In an unprecedented turn of events, the waters off Walton County, Florida, were closed on Friday following back-to-back shark bite incidents, raising concerns among locals and officials alike.

The incidents, which occurred within a span of 90 minutes, sent shockwaves through the community. South Walton Fire District Chief Ryan Crawford described the events as "extremely unusual" during an evening news briefing.

The first reported shark incident involved a 45-year-old woman who sustained significant injuries while swimming with her husband near Watersound Beach. Crawford stated that the woman suffered trauma to her midsection and pelvic area, along with the amputation of her left lower arm. She was rushed to a medical center in critical condition but was reported to be stable the following day.

Shortly after the initial attack, another incident occurred at the Sandy Shores Court area off Seacrest Beach. Two girls, aged between 15 and 17, were bitten by a shark while swimming with friends near the first sandbar. One victim sustained significant injuries to both upper and lower extremities and was transported to a trauma center in critical condition, while the second victim suffered flesh wounds to her right foot and is in stable condition.

Despite the severity of the injuries, Walton County Sheriff Mike Adkinson expressed gratitude for the swift responses from nearby citizens and first responders, which provided the critically injured victims with a "fighting chance" at recovery.

In response to the incidents, officials closed the water to the public across all of Walton County, emphasizing public safety. While the water reopened the following day, warning flags indicating high surf and strong currents were raised, along with a purple flag signaling the presence of stinging marine life.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the dual attacks and have reached out to experts at Mote Marine to determine if there were any anomalous factors contributing to the incidents. Although the type of shark responsible for the attacks remains unknown, officials caution that sharks are commonly found in these waters.

As residents and visitors remain vigilant, the community awaits further updates and takes necessary precautions to ensure the safety of beachgoers in Walton County.