Los Angeles County beachgoers are getting the red flag from local health officials, and it's not for rip currents or sharks. The county's Department of Public Health has issued a safety advisory for multiple popular beach areas due to concerning levels of bacteria found in ocean water samples. Visitors are advised to avoid swimming, surfing, or playing in the affected areas, which include spots near Santa Monica Pier, Inner Cabrillo Beach, Mother's Beach in Marina Del Rey, and several others.
According to the recent bulletin published by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, these advisories are based on the latest water quality tests that detected bacterial levels beyond what's considered safe according to state health standards. Specifically, areas around storm drains and piers, such as the Pico-Kenter storm drain at Santa Monica Beach and Ramirez Creek at Paradise Cove, are flagged for increased risk of illness from water contact.
The good news comes for a couple of previously warned locations. Based on up-to-date sampling data that showed improved water quality, health officials have lifted advisories for areas near the Wilshire Bl. storm drain at Santa Monica Beach and the Imperial Highway storm drain at Dockweiler State Beach. These spots now meet the state's water quality standards for ocean use, signaling some encouragement amidst the swath of warnings.
For the diligent beach enthusiast or concerned local, the County maintains a 24-hour beach closure hotline at 1-800- 525-5662, providing recorded information on beach conditions. Additionally, online resources are available for those preferring a digital approach, with a comprehensive map and further details at the county's official beach information website. Still, if direct contact is the preference, the public can reach out to the Department of Public Health at (626) 430-5360 with any inquiries regarding beach water use.
