The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is issuing a heads-up for beachgoers to think twice before diving into the waters at several local beaches due to elevated bacterial levels. The advisory warns residents to avoid engaging in water activities like swimming, surfing, or playing at beaches where bacterial levels have pushed past health standards.
The list of impacted areas spans popular spots, including the entirety of swim areas at Las Flores Creek at Las Flores State Beach and Inner Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro. Other areas like Walnut Creek at Paradise Cove, Solstice Creek at Dan Blocker County Beach, and Marie Canyon Storm Drain at Puerco Beach are also under warning, compelling visitors to potentially change their coastal plans. Each warning delineates specific sections, generally advising a 100-yard distance from identified points of concern like piers and storm drains. The full details on the advisory can be found on the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health website.
These warnings are hardly a surprise given Southern California's recurring battles with polluted runoff, particularly after rainfall. The source of pollution often traces back to storm drains, rivers, and creeks funneling contaminants from city streets directly into the sea. Beach-goers should take these advisories seriously, as the heightened bacterial levels pose risks to human health and can cause a range of illnesses.
In contrast to the gloomy news for many locales, there's a clean bill of health for Montana Ave. storm drain at Santa Monica Beach. Santa Monica North Tower 8 has been cleared as recent samples have indicated that water quality levels are back within State standards. For those looking to stay updated on the conditions without getting their feet sandy, the County offers a 24-hour beach closure hotline at 1-800-525-5662.
