Multiple beaches along the U.S. East Coast have issued 'do not swim' warnings due to elevated levels of fecal bacteria, prompting health advisories for millions of Americans planning Fourth of July beach outings in New York and New Jersey.
The bacteria detected, Enterococcus, is commonly found in human and animal feces and can indicate the presence of more harmful pathogens. Health officials caution that contaminated water could lead to stomach illnesses and infections, particularly for vulnerable populations like children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
In New York City, five beaches in Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx are under advisory after recent testing revealed bacteria levels exceeding the city's safety threshold. For instance, Sea Gate 42nd, a private beach on Coney Island, recorded 233 bacteria per 100 milliliters of water, more than double the acceptable limit of 104. Whitestone Boosters Civic Association Beach in Queens measured 136 this week after reaching 873 the previous week. Douglaston Manor Beach in Queens also reported high levels last week, with 1,362 bacteria per 100 milliliters, though levels have since decreased.
Two private beaches in the Bronx are also affected. The Trinity Danish Young People's Society beach saw bacteria levels more than double the acceptable limit last week, and the neighboring White Cross Fishing Club measured 127 this week. The New York City Department of Health advises against swimming or wading at these locations, warning of potential gastrointestinal illnesses such as diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps, as well as infections from contact with open wounds.
Officials noted that conditions may have worsened since the latest tests, especially with sweltering temperatures potentially accelerating bacterial growth. Beaches could face closure if repeated illnesses are reported or if evidence of sewage or other hazardous contaminants is found.
Across the Hudson River, New Jersey officials have also issued warnings for four swimming areas. Windward Beach in Brick and Cedar Point in South Toms River both recorded 150 colony-forming units of Enterococcus, while Summit Avenue Beach in Island Heights registered 110. The most significant reading came from Cedar Bridge Manor Park in Brick, with bacteria levels at 900 colony-forming units, nearly nine times New Jersey's safe swimming standard.
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection attributes contamination to various sources, including animal waste, leaking sewer and septic systems, and stormwater runoff. Some advisories issued earlier in the week have since been lifted as bacteria levels returned to safe thresholds, including at Miller Beach in Atlantic Highlands, East Beach in Pine Beach, and Anglesea Avenue Beach in Ocean Gate.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends avoiding swallowing water or submerging one's head at beaches under advisory. Waders are advised to avoid exposing open wounds to the water and to wash their hands after spending time on the sand. Factors contributing to elevated bacteria levels include pet and wildlife waste, leaking septic systems, sewer issues, and stormwater runoff.
