Angelenos, hold off on the beach plans. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has doubled down on its warning to avoid ocean water contact at all county beaches until Sunday evening, citing heightened bacteria levels from recent rainfall, according to a public advisory.

The department specifically pointed to areas near storm drains, creeks, and rivers, which can be hotbeds for pollutants following rainstorms. These can include a nasty mix of bacteria, chemicals, and trash that are swept off streets and mountain areas into the sea. The result? You might end up more than just wet if you take a dip – you could get sick. The advisory, extended due to the persistent showers, will stay in effect until March 10, at 7:00 pm. But, don’t get too cozy with that endpoint, the department has warned that the advisory could be prolonged with additional rainfall in the forecast.

And it's not just a cautionary whisper. The public health officials are broadcasting their message far and wide. A beach condition hotline has been set up, dial 1-800-525-5662 to hear round-the-clock updates. For those who prefer a visual aid, the county’s beach map detailing the no-go zones is up on the Los Angeles County Public Health website. Trust me, swapping the surfboard for some indoor activities this weekend might not be the worst idea.

This isn't just about spoiled beach days though, it's about health and safety. After a rain, urban runoff can contaminate waters with more than just unappetizing debris; pathogens that lead to numerous illnesses lurk in these polluted waters. It's serious business, and the county's advisory is in place to safeguard the public against these invisible threats. So, while it might be tempting to ignore the warnings and embrace the waves, consider this: The short-term thrill could lead to long-term health issues. That post-rain swim just isn't worth the risk.