Beachgoers in Los Angeles County were urged to avoid all water contact Sunday, especially near discharging storm drains, creeks, and rivers, due to potentially higher bacteria levels after Sunday’s rainfall.
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health issued an Ocean Water Quality Rain Advisory until at least 8 a.m. Tuesday. The warning also applies to any runoff that may flow onto the beach sand.
“Ocean and bay recreational waters, especially near discharging storm drains, creeks and rivers can be contaminated with bacteria, chemicals, debris, trash and other public health hazards from city streets and mountain areas after a rain fall,” the department said. “Individuals who enter the water in these areas could become ill. Rain advisories remain in effect for 72 hours after the rainfall ends.”
The advisory could be extended depending on further rainfall.
A map of impacted locations can be found at PublicHealth.LACounty.gov/Beach/. The county also provides recorded 24-hour information on beach conditions at 800-525-5662.