A massive live whale washed ashore on a Santa Cruz beach Thursday morning, prompting emergency response as crews rush to the scene.

Multiple agencies responded along with marine safety personnel to the scene at Cowell Beach, according to the city of Santa Cruz.

“The immediate area surrounding the whale has been closed off,” officials wrote.

“We ask the public to respect the designated perimeter, and allow responders the space they need to assess the situation.”

Photos and video showed emergency personnel on scene and parts of the whale visible from the beach. The area had been blocked off by cones and tape.

The condition of the whale was unknown.