Los Angeles County beachgoers are advised to think twice before diving into the surf at several popular spots. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has issued ocean water use warnings for several beaches, suggesting elevated bacterial levels could put swimmers at risk. Affected areas span from Santa Monica down to San Pedro, and the advisories cover activities like swimming, surfing, and beach play.
Among the list, high bacterial counts have put a damper on the surf at such iconic spots as Santa Monica Pier and Malibu Lagoon at Surfrider Beach. Health officials warn against entering the ocean within 100 yards of the creek at Santa Monica Canyon Creek, Topanga Canyon Beach, and other listed areas. For a comprehensive view, PublicHealth.LACounty.gov/Beach/ provides the map and details of the warnings.
Not all news is grim for beach enthusiasts, however. The health department has given the all-clear for the area around the Pico-Kenter storm drain at Santa Monica Beach. This follows tests that showed water quality levels returned within state standards, offering a safer slice of the coast for water activities.
Residents and visitors should remain informed about current beach conditions, considering the stakes are high when bacterial levels exceed health standards. The County's 24-hour beach closure hotline, at 1-800-525-5662, offers recorded updates. Returning results dictate the status of these warnings may change, with health officials poised to update advisories as new data rolls in.
