The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is flagging a bacteria problem at various county beaches, so you may want to think twice before diving into the surf. Health officials are recommending people avoid ocean activities like swimming, surfing, and playing in the ocean waters near certain Los Angeles County beaches. High bacterial levels are the culprit here, going above and beyond what the health standards consider safe.
The affected areas include popular spots like Malibu Lagoon at Surfrider Beach and Santa Monica Pier, among others. Specifically, officials are advising against ocean water use 100 yards up and down the coast from these landmarks – yes, this includes that stretch by the Malibu Pier and the always-busy Ramirez Creek at Paradise Cove. Inner Cabrillo Beach and Mothers Beach are even seeing warnings for their entire swim areas.
According to a bulletin from the LA County Department of Public Health, some beaches have had their warnings lifted. Santa Monica Canyon Creek at Will Rogers State Beach, Dockweiler State Beach, Topanga Canyon Beach in Malibu, and the Windward storm drain at Venice Beach are now considered within the safe range for water quality levels, aligning with State standards. So, there are still places where you can take that plunge worry-free.
If you're looking to stay updated on the latest beach conditions, you can tap into the County's beach closure hotline, available 24-7 at 1-800-525-5662. For the map enthusiasts among us, you can visually scope out the impacted areas on the Department’s website with all the information at your fingertips.
