Los Angeles County Department of Public Health Issues Warnings
By Dolores Quintana
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has issued another warning this week for beaches in Santa Monica. Most of the beaches in the area have been under this warning for most of the month of June, although some have come off of the list.
This warning cautions residents who are planning to visit the below Los Angeles County beaches to avoid swimming, surfing, and playing in ocean waters:
Beach Area Warnings:
Malibu Lagoon at Surfrider Beach
Topanga Canyon Beach in Malibu
Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica
Mothers Beach in Marina Del Rey
These warnings have been issued due to bacterial levels exceeding health standards when last tested. Bacteria levels can increase significantly during and after rainstorms, as contaminants within the runoff enters the ocean. Bacteria levels may remain elevated up to 3 days depending upon the intensity of the rain and the volume of runoff. 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 the County’s beach closure hotline: 1-800- 525-5662 or you can check on the LA Department of Public Health website.