The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is waving red flags at beachgoers and issuing a health advisory for several popular coastal spots. High bacterial levels have led to beach closures and ocean water use warnings throughout Los Angeles County, impacting residents and tourists planning to hit the surf or sand.
Swimmers, surfers, and beach lovers take note: Dockweiler State Beach and Venice Beach are entirely off-limits from Ballona Creek to one mile north and south, respectively, according to the latest bulletin from the County's health department. The culprit? A recent sewage discharge has environmental and health officials concerned enough, to shutter these popular destinations until further notice.
The department has put out alerts for several other locations due to the same issue - bacterial invasions breaching acceptable health standards. Areas under advisory include Santa Monica Canyon Creek at Will Rogers State Beach, Santa Monica Pier, Malibu Lagoon at Surfrider Beach, and several others within a 100-yard radius surrounding piers, creek outlets, and storm drains.
Nevertheless, not all the news is grim for water enthusiasts. The health department shared some good tidings for a change, lifted warnings for Latigo Shore Drive in Malibu and the Herondo Street Storm Drain in Hermosa Beach; these areas have been given a clean bill of health after recent testing showed water quality levels now meeting State standards.
For those planning a day of ocean fun, the County advises checking the latest conditions, which are available on the 24-hour beach closure hotline at 1-800-525-5662. Additionally, for updates on the tide of beach openings and ongoing advisories, locals can surf over to the Department of Public Health's website.
