The “creepy clown” phenomenon has surfaced in Huntington Beach.

Police say they’re receiving reports of disturbing people dressed as clowns throughout the city, although officers haven’t seen any themselves.

Since Tuesday, clowns reportedly have been seen at Harmony HB Arts & Wellness Center, 16907 Algonquin St., and the Edison Community Center, 21377 Magnolia St., said police department spokeswoman Jennifer Marlatt.

Another clown was sighted at Marine View Middle School on Tuesday, according to an online post on the Facebook group Huntington Beach Community Forum. Police did not receive a report about that incident, Marlatt said.

“Often people will post on social media accounts but they won’t call us,” she said.

Reports of menacing-looking clowns have been common throughout the United States in recent months, and attacks were alleged in Ohio.

“This started back East because of the violence there,” Marlatt said. “People don’t know if these clowns will be violent or chase people. I think the hysteria that started back East is here because of what people have seen and heard in the media.”

Marlatt encouraged anyone who sees a non-threatening clown to call (714) 960-8811. If a clown is violent or chases people, residents should call 911.

brittany.woolsey@latimes.com

Twitter: @BrittanyWoolsey