A stingray invasion has helped to set a dubious record in Huntington beach, California, Friday.

Thousands of folks hitting the beaches this New Year are being warned to be on the lookout for an ongoing stingray invasion which has already sent dozens to makeshift beach treatment stations.

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The invasion caused a record 73 people to be treated for stings on Friday alone, putting lifeguards on serious alert.

The stingray party comes at a particularly bad time for Surf City Splash, an annual event which draws thousands to the trendy beach community, reports abc7.

So many people were sent screaming from the water that “stingray stations” had to be erected. The tents are equipped with hot water, shade and a soothing shoulder to cry on.

Stingray stings, although not usually life threatening, can be extremely painful for the victims.