After a storm hit Southern California on New Year’s week, officials are asking the public to avoid all Los Angeles County beaches due to high levels of bacteria.
Due to recent rainfall, contamination from excessive bacteria, trash, chemicals and other hazardous debris can seep into ocean waters from nearby city streets and mountain areas, especially around discharging storm drains, creeks and rivers, said the L.A. County Department of Public Health.
This warning also includes any runoff that may flow onto or pond on the beach sand.
Stormwater runoff can also transport physical hazards such as partially submerged tree limbs and logs into the ocean, which could cause serious injury, officials said.
People who enter the ocean water during this period could become ill, especially children, the elderly, or those who are immunocompromised, officials said.
The advisories will remain in effect until at least Monday, Jan. 5 at 4 p.m. and may be extended depending on further rainfall.
Ocean waters at Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro will also remain closed after around 100,000 gallons of sewage spilled into the water on Christmas Eve. Visitors were advised to avoid contact with ocean water and wet sand until further notice.
The health department tests ocean water bacteria levels regularly and advisories will be lifted once the levels meet standards set by the state of California. Rain advisories typically remain in effect for 72 hours after rainfall ends.
For a map and the latest information on beach closures and warnings, check the L.A. County Department of Health’s website or call the county’s hotline at 1-800-525-5662.
To report a beach emergency or issue, call the L.A. County Operator at 626-430-5360 or during after-hours at 213-974-1234.
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