Los Angeles County beachgoers are being warned to steer clear of the water at several popular spots due to health concerns. According to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, elevated bacterial levels have forced officials to issue advisories against swimming, surfing, and playing in ocean waters by the Santa Monica Pier, Mothers Beach in Marina Del Rey, and various other locations along the coastline. These advisories, released on March 13th, come as a caution to residents looking to enjoy the county's famed beaches.
The specific areas affected include a 100-yard stretch directly around Santa Monica Pier, the entirety of Mothers Beach's swim area, and the vicinity of the Pico-Kenter and Windward storm drains and Santa Monica Canyon Creek at Will Rogers State Beach. The public is advised to altogether avoid entering the ocean near these locations until further notice. The Department of Public Health has said these warnings were necessary to protect the public after bacterial levels went to exceed health standards during recent tests.
However, some relief comes as warnings have been lifted from Inner Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro, indicating that water quality levels have met state standards. As the situation is continuously monitored, beachgoers are encouraged to check the status before making any coastal plans. Updated information on beach conditions can be accessed 24 hours a day through the County's beach closure hotline or by visiting their website, as recommended by health officials.
While these advisories may disrupt plans for locals and tourists alike, it is crucial for beach enthusiasts to heed these warnings seriously in order to prevent possible health risks. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health continues to test water quality and will issue updates as conditions evolve. To stay informed on the latest developments or to simply view a map of the impacted locations, the public can visit PublicHealth.LACounty.gov/Beach/. The Department has not yet released water quality results following the recent rain advisory, leaving some details yet to be uncovered.
