Paddle boarders and swimmers got the fright of their lives when issued a terrifying warning by Orange County Sheriff’s Department while enjoying the water off the coast of California.

“Attention in the water: This is the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.… You are paddleboarding next to approximately 15 great white sharks,” the authorities warned.

It’s definitely not something you want to hear when you’re out for a swim but that was the terrifying announcement from Deputy Brian Stockbridge, as he surveyed Capistrano Beach from a police helicopter.

Footage captured from the chopper shows more than a dozen of the enormous predators in the water below, prowling ominously close to the shoreline.

“They [State Parks] are advising that you exit the water in a calm manner,” Stockbridge warned startled swimmers. “The sharks are as close as the surf line.”

Stockbridge informed beachgoers that the water was “heavily populated with great white sharks,” and warned those on the shore not to enter the water.

The OC Register reports that the gathering of great whites was close to where a woman was attacked by sharks less than two weeks ago.

Shark advisory is in effect until further notice ⚠️ Please contact Lifeguard HQ: 562-570-1360 for additional info. or stay tuned for updates pic.twitter.com/hOtN6PHyhl

— Long Beach Fire (CA) (@lbfd) May 11, 2017

Shark warnings were issued by other authorities along the California coast on the same day. Marine experts say warm waters and abundant food supply have drawn young sharks to the coastline.

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