Dead whale washes ashore on North Litchfield Beach in Georgetown County

A dead whale washed ashore Thursday afternoon on North Litchfield Beach near Shorebird Loop in Georgetown County, WCBD reported.

Officials said the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is en route to the beach to examine the whale before removing it, according to Live 5 WCSC and ABC News 4 WCIV.

Authorities have urged the public to stay away from the area and to keep pets away from the whale, as dead whales can carry diseases, WCBD and Live 5 WCSC noted.

Federal law prohibits touching or removing any part of the whale, officials said, emphasizing the importance of public safety around the animal, as reported by ABC News 4 WCIV.