San Diego County’s coasts have been put on alert due to a General Rain Advisory today, linked to urban runoff pollution after recent rainfall. The Department of Environmental Health and Quality advises beach visitors to stay cautious due to heightened bacteria levels, especially near storm drains, creeks, rivers, and lagoon outlets.
The advisory, to avoid the contaminated water, urges people participating in aquatic activities such as swimming, surfing, and diving to stay clear of the water for 72 hours post-rainfall. The advisory is expected to be lifted on November 19 at 8:00 a.m., but this may change.
The General Rain Advisory spans beaches from San Onofre State Beach to Border Field, including Mission Bay and San Diego Bay. Metal warning signs are placed at several coastal outlets. However, the public should remember that temporary signs aren't always put up during such advisories. This underscores the importance of public awareness about the risks of urban runoff pollution after rainfall.
Two beach closures due to high bacteria levels currently remain in effect. The closure at Imperial Beach Shoreline has been active since November 12, encompassing the ocean shoreline from the southern end of Seacoast Drive to Carnation Avenue. Similarly, since December 8, 2021, the Tijuana Slough Shoreline has been closed—this affects the ocean shoreline from the U.S./Mexico border, which includes Border Field State Park and the Tijuana Slough National Wildlife Refuge.
For additional information on the General Rain Advisory and the current beach closures, you can visit the San Diego County Beach Status website.
