Public Health Advisory Urges Avoidance of Water and Sand Contact Until Further Notice
Due to recent rainfall exacerbating the spread of fire debris, Los Angeles County Public Health officials have announced an Ocean Water Closure from Las Flores State Beach to Santa Monica State Beach.
The closure, which will remain in effect until further notice, was necessitated by the presence of potentially toxic or carcinogenic chemicals from fire debris runoff in both the water and sand.
Local residents and visitors are urged to avoid contact with both the water and sand in these areas to prevent health risks.
Additionally, an Ocean Water Quality Rain Advisory, in effect since January 26, will continue through at least 8:00 am on Thursday, January 30, for all other beaches in Los Angeles County. This advisory recommends avoiding water contact for at least 72 hours following significant rainfall due to potential contamination. This advisory could be extended if there is further rainfall.
Post-rain advisory, the ocean water advisory will persist for the stretch from Surfrider Beach to Las Flores State Beach and from Santa Monica State Beach to Dockweiler State Beach at World Way, due to ongoing concerns about fire debris.
For the latest updates, beachgoers can call the advisory hotline at 800-525-5662 or visit the Environmental Health website at www.PublicHealth.LACounty.gov/beach. For questions, contact Los Angeles County Public Health at (626) 430-5360.
