• Collision highlights growing challenges in San Francisco Bay
• Authorities warn of risks from approaching gray whales

A dramatic collision between a windsurfer and a gray whale in San Francisco Bay has raised concerns over marine safety.

Giancarlo Rulli of the Marine Mammal Center said, "It's worrying to see such a collision—not only from a human health perspective, as we are glad the man is safe, but also for the whale's well-being in the bay."

Currently, six gray whales inhabit the bay, and federal law mandates keeping a 100-yard distance from them.

The Marine Mammal Center described the bay as a crowded, confined area, especially as whales migrate north from Mexico, noting that gray whales arrived earlier this year.

Rulli added, "There are many converging factors in the bay right now. There’s a high number of whales, high-speed ferries transporting thousands daily, and large container ships entering Oakland port each day."

Since 2016, gray whales have lost over 50% of their total population.

Rulli advised windsurfers, boaters, and anyone in the water to stay vigilant: "If you see a spout or bubbles, slow down. These are usually signs of a gray whale before it dives. Most importantly, move away and maintain a safe distance."

Four gray whales have washed up dead in San Francisco Bay this year, underscoring the need for caution and marine protection.