A woman visiting from Germany lost an arm in an apparent shark attack this afternoon in an area known as White Rock in Makena, said Maui County spokesman Rod Antone. The woman, in her 20s, was with two friends at the time of the attack.

The woman, whose right arm was reportedly severed below the shoulder area, was transported to Maui Memorial Hospital in critical condition.

Department of Land and Natural Resources officers were notified at about 4:45 p.m. County lifeguards are now working with the Maui Fire Department to conduct a helicopter survey of the coastline to check for a shark.

The shoreline from the first entrance to Makena State Park to Keawaula Beach, including Kihei’s small boat launch ramp, is now closed due to the attack.

DLNR personnel are warning the public on the beach to stay out of the water. An assessment will be made in the morning for any shark presence.