Health Officials: Avoid Ocean Water After Recent Storms
Jan 21, 2024 06:52PM ● By Jeanne Fratello
Clouds stretch across the sky at the Manhattan Beach Pier on Sunday evening. Stormwater runoff from Saturday's storms could be seen puddling underneath the pier.
Getting ready to hop in the ocean? Think again, says the L.A. County Department of Health.
The health department has issued an Ocean Water Quality Rain Advisory for all Los Angeles County beaches, urging beach-goers not to go in the water.
The advisory will be in effect at least until 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 23 (and may be extended if rainstorms continue).
An ocean water quality rain advisory is declared when there is
significant rainfall that may cause run-off from inland to flow to the
ocean. Contamination from run-off can cause increased bacterial levels
in ocean water especially near storm drains, creeks, and other
waterways. Water contact during a rain advisory may cause illness
especially in children, the elderly and susceptible people. Bacteria
levels may take 72 hours or more to return to normal after heavy
rainfall, such as the region experienced on Saturday.
(Beach-goers observe the surf in Manhattan Beach on Sunday.)If you do choose to head to the beach, note that the stairs heading down to the beach on either side of the Manhattan Beach Pier are currently closed for construction.
