Heads up, SoCal beachgoers: The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is waving a red flag on certain beach areas. They aren't suggesting a casual jaunt in toxic waters—residents are being advised to avoid swimming, surfing, or even frolicking in the ocean near several Los Angeles County beaches due to elevated bacteria levels.
Bacteria levels that have exceeded health standards have spurred warnings for a number of popular spots. Among the implicated areas are the Avenue I storm drain at Redondo Beach, Leo Carrillo State Beach, Malaga Cove, and several others. Officials are specifically spotlighting 100 yards up and down from storm drains, piers, and public restrooms. At Mothers Beach in Marina Del Rey and Inner Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro, it's the entire swim area that's off-limits, as reported by the County of Los Angeles.
However, some beach areas have been given the all-clear, with recent samples showing water quality levels now within state standards. This includes parts of Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach, according to a bulletin from the County of Los Angeles.
For updates on current conditions, call the County’s beach closure hotline, available 24/7. A full map of affected locations is also posted on the Los Angeles County Public Health website.
