Beachgoers in Los Angeles County might want to think twice before jumping into the Pacific as public health officials issue an ocean water use warning for several popular spots along the coast. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is advising people to stay clear of the water near selected beaches due to elevated bacterial levels which have surpassed the accepted health standards as per the last testing results.
Among the affected areas are the surroundings of Venice Beach near the Windward storm drain, and the entirety of the swim areas at Mothers Beach in Marina Del Rey, Las Flores Creek at Las Flores State Beach, and Walnut Creek at Paradise Cove, as well as several other locations; those planning any beachside activities should be wary of entering the waters in these regions. People are often drawn to the sun-soaked beaches of Los Angeles for their water sports and leisure activities, this advisory serves as a reminder that urban runoff and contamination can quickly pose risks to ocean lovers and wildlife alike.
The alerts are not total showstoppers for beach enthusiasts, as some locations have been given the all-clear, recent samples show that the Pico-Kenter storm drain at Santa Monica Beach has met the State standards for water quality allowing visitors to resume their coastal frolics at Santa Monica South Tower 20. Public health maintains a close eye on coastal water quality; issuing warnings whenever necessary to protect beachgoers from health hazards stemming from polluted waters.
Those looking for up-to-date information on beach conditions or planning a visit to the shore can stay informed by dialing the County's beach closure hotline at 1-800-525-5662 which operates 24 hours a day, or by visiting the PublicHealth.LACounty.gov/Beach/ website.
