For Angelenos looking to catch a wave or soak up some sun by the sea, a recent warning from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health may have you rethinking your beach plans. A number of popular beaches have been flagged for high bacterial levels, warning visitors to avoid engaging in water activities such as swimming, surfing, and splashing around in these areas until further notice.
The advisories, issued due to water samples revealing bacterial levels above health standards, specifically call out several beach areas that beachgoers should steer clear from. According to an alert from the county, these include the vicinity of storm drains and piers at locations like Venice Beach, Mothers Beach in Marina Del Rey, and the Santa Monica Pier – to name just a few. In total, advisories currently affect nine areas, all detailed in the county's statement.
Then there's some good news for those who frequent Redondo Beach Pier and the Avenue I storm drain vicinity at Redondo Beach. The Department of Public Health has lifted previous warnings for these areas, declaring them within State water quality standards and safe for public use.
Anyone planning to visit any of the aforementioned beaches should remain informed on the most current conditions. The county's beach closure hotline, 1-800-525-5662, provides updated recorded information around the clock. For those more visually inclined, detailed maps and further information can be found on the Public Health website.
