Los Angeles County beachgoers take note. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has issued an ocean water use warning for several popular beaches, citing heightened bacterial levels that exceed health standards, as reported by the County of Los Angeles, California. Among the affected areas are Santa Monica Canyon Creek at Will Rogers State Beach, where contamination extends 100 yards up and down the coast from the creek, and Mothers Beach in Marina Del Rey, where the entire swim area is under warning.

The advisory, a stern reminder of the fragility of our coastal ecosystems, affects numerous locations including Malibu Lagoon at Surfrider Beach, Santa Monica Pier, and Inner Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro, according to the County of Los Angeles, California. While enjoying the waves, swimmers and surfers should steer clear of the sites mentioned in the public health announcement.

However, there's a silver lining for some beach enthusiasts. The Department has lifted warnings for the Pico-Kenter storm drain at Santa Monica Beach, Santa Monica South Tower 20, indicating water quality there has returned to levels within State standards, as per the County of Los Angeles, California. This update allows residents and visitors to fully enjoy at least one slice of L.A.'s coastline without worry.

For those planning a beach day, it's crucial to stay informed about the latest water quality conditions. The County maintains a 24-hour beach closure hotline at 1-800-525-5662, and information can also be accessed through their website.