Shark scare closes Charlestown beaches

CHARLESTOWN, R.I. (WPRI) - Two Rhode Island beaches briefly closed their waters to swimmers on Saturday after a possible shark sighting.

Blue Shutters town beach in Charlestown closed for a short time after lifeguards spotted something in the water, prompting nearby East Beach to do the same just to be safe.

This past week beaches in Massachusetts shut down after several shark sightings as well, including Westport's Horseneck Beach and several beaches in New Bedford . 

Environmental officials say the increase in sightings could be due to warmer water temperatures this year and a recent buildup of the seal population.

The Rhode Island DEM has directed all state beach staff to be extra vigilant in surveying beach waters and to report any possible sightings immediately.