Los Angeles County beach-goers received a heads-up as the Department of Public Health issued warnings against ocean activities at several local beaches. High bacterial levels, above the acceptable health standards, are to blame, putting a damper on any plans for swimming, surfing, or playing in the ocean waters near these areas.
The warnings pertain to a series of beaches where bacterial levels were found to be sky-high when last tested, including popular spots like Avalon Beach at Catalina Island right next to the pier, the entirety of Mothers Beach in Marina Del Rey, and the spaces surrounding the Santa Monica Pier. Notorious for their pollution issues, the Pico-Kenter storm drain at Santa Monica Beach and Leo Carrillo State Beach in Malibu made the list too, standing alongside the contaminated zones 100 yards from certain landmarks, as per the County of Los Angeles announcement.
On a more positive note, beach areas such as Inner Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro have had their warnings lifted. After considerable testing, the recent samples at this location have met the State's water quality standards sufficiently, no longer posing the same health threats that initially prompted restrictions, the County of Los Angeles stated.
For those looking to stay updated on the condition of the coastlines, a 24-hour beach closure hotline is available at 1-800-525-5662. Additionally, the County's website offers maps and further details about the current beach conditions. For the public looking to delve into specifics or have their inquiries addressed, the department can be contacted at (626) 430-5360.
