Angelenos looking to beat the heat by hitting the beaches may need to rethink their plans. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has issued a series of health advisories for various beach areas, following a recent sewage spill. The affected sites extend across the county, from Dockweiler State Beach to Santa Monica Pier, impacting numerous popular spots in between.
The advisories are a literal buzzkill for summer fun as, several beaches are now plastered with warnings against swimming, surfing, and even splashing around in the affected waters. According to the Department of Public Health, high bacterial levels that exceed health standards were recorded, spelling potential risks for anyone who ventures into these waters. Dockweiler State Beach and Venice Beach, for example, remain off-limits entirely due to the proximity to Ballona Creek where the sewage discharge was reported.
But it's not all doom and gloom for beachgoers. Some sense of coastal normalcy is restored as the health department has also given the all-clear for Mothers Beach in Marina Del Rey, where water quality levels are now within state standards. Beach areas with warnings include Las Flores Creek at Las Flores State Beach and Escondido Creek at Escondido State Beach, along with many others that are usually bustling with visitors during this time of year.
For those insisting on a day at the beach, it may be wise to call ahead and check the status of the waters. A 24-hour beach closure hotline – 1-800-525-5662 – keeps the public informed about the latest conditions. Or, you can visit the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health's website for updates and a map of impacted locations.