Heading to the beach might be part of your typical Southern California routine, but the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is advising against taking a dip at several popular spots. The reason? High bacterial levels that don't meet health standards. L.A. County health officials have issued ocean water use warnings for many Los Angeles County beaches, cautioning against swimming, surfing, and playing in affected ocean waters, as per the County of Los Angeles, California.
The specific areas flagged with warnings include Topanga Canyon Beach and Malibu Pier in Malibu, Inner Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro, Marie Canyon, and Sweetwater Canyon storm drains at their respective beaches, Escondido Creek at Escondido State Beach, Mothers Beach in Marina Del Rey, Malibu Lagoon at Surfrider Beach, and a section around the Santa Monica Pier. Visitors are advised to avoid the water around these locations due to bacterial levels that exceed health standards, according to the County of Los Angeles, California.
On a brighter note, if you're itching for some ocean time, Santa Monica Canyon Creek at Will Rogers State Beach has been cleared. This means that after recent testing, this area’s water quality levels were found to be within state standards, making it a safer option for beachgoers. Always remember to check the latest conditions before you head out, as situations can change rapidly. Updated information is made available around the clock via the County's beach closure hotline at 1-800-525-5662.
