SEAL BEACH, CA — The Orange County Healthcare Agency issued a rain advisory due to possible increases of bacteria in ocean waters in all Orange County beaches, including Seal Beach, due to recent rainfall.
“Following the weekend’s storm, the Environmental Health staff advises swimmers that levels of bacteria can rise significantly in ocean and bay waters adjacent to storm drains, creeks and rivers during and after rainstorms,” the advisory warned.
Elevated bacterial levels can persist for at least 3 days, depending on the intensity of the rain and the volume of runoff. With the current weather pattern, beaches will likely be safer for swimming by Thursday morning.
Swimmers should avoid coastal waters impacted by discharging storm drains, creeks and rivers, and beach users should avoid contact with any runoff on the beach during dry or wet weather conditions.
“The Environmental Health staff advises swimmers that levels of bacteria can rise significantly in ocean and bay waters adjacent to storm drains, creeks and rivers,” according to OCHA. “Elevated bacteria levels in ocean water may cause illness, especially in children and the elderly.”
Recorded information on beach conditions is available 24 hours a day on OCHA’s website.