The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has issued ocean water use warnings for several area beaches, noting that bacterial levels have spiked beyond what is considered safe.
Specific points of concern include the areas surrounding popular spots like the Pico-Kenter storm drain at Santa Monica Beach and the Redondo Beach Pier. According to the department's latest bulletin, there are warnings at multiple locations, extending 100 yards from piers and storm drains, and even the entire swim areas at some beaches, like Inner Cabrillo Beach and Mothers Beach in Marina Del Rey, are affected. However, water quality at Pena Creek at Las Tunas County Beach has been cleared, signaling some return to normalcy for these natural havens.
The cause for concern at these locales stems from measured bacterial levels that exceed health standards. While no detailed explanations were provided as to the source of this bacterial surge, it's a fair assumption that storm drain runoff and other pollutants play a role. The Department of Public Health's advice is clear: Steer clear of the water in the specified areas to avoid potential health risks.
For those who frequent these waters for recreation, it's a bummer, but safety comes first. On a brighter note, not all beaches are off-limits. Water samples from some areas have returned to state standards, allowing the department to lift previous warnings – meaning some strips of sand and surf are getting the all-clear. Those planning to visit can check the current status on the county's beach closure hotline at 1-800-525-5662 or visit the Public Health website for updates and a map of impacted locations, keeping themselves informed and hopefully, healthy.
