Authorities are cautioning Los Angeles residents about swimming in the ocean on Sunday due to high surf conditions and dangerous bacteria-laden runoff from Saturday’s rainfall.
But aside from wet-suited, die-hard surfers, who’d want to get into the cold ocean water? Especially as the Southland is in for brisk temperatures, cloudy skies and even some off-again, on-again showers through Christmas Day.
A large northwest swell is bringing surf of 10 of 13 feet, while runoff from Saturday’s rain will contaminate ocean water around storm drains, creeks and rivers.
“Bacteria, debris, trash and other public health hazards from city streets and mountain areas are likely to enter ocean waters through these outlets,” Interim County Health Officer Dr. Jeffrey Gunzenhauser said. “There is the possibility that bacterium or chemicals from debris and trash could contaminate the water near and around discharge sites, and individuals who enter the water in these areas could become ill.”
Both high surf and small craft advisories are in effect until Sunday night. The runoff advisory was scheduled to remain in effect until at least 6 p.m. Tuesday.
The National Weather Service forecast for central Los Angeles County from Malibu to Long Beach calls for partly cloudy conditions on Sunday with highs around 60. Lows overnight will be in the mid 40s to lower 50s.
Monday is expected to be mostly cloudy with highs in the lower to mid 60s, and that will be the kind of weather we can expect through Christmas.