The Los Angeles County Public Health Department has issued advisories for five popular beaches, urging the public to avoid swimming, surfing, and playing in the ocean waters due to elevated bacteria levels. Recent water samples at these locations exceeded health standards, indicating a potential increased risk of illness for beachgoers.
The affected beaches include Venice Pier, Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica, the East Wilshire Boulevard storm drain area at Santa Monica Beach, Mother’s Beach in Marina del Rey, and Inner Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro.
Officials noted that an earlier advisory for the Wilshire Boulevard storm drain at Santa Monica Beach has since been lifted, as recent water quality samples showed safe levels. This alert comes as Southern California experiences high temperatures, with inland areas reaching the high 90s, prompting many residents to seek cooler environments at the coast.
The advisory aims to protect public health by warning against exposure to waters that may harbor harmful bacteria. The health department’s guidance is based on the analysis of water samples collected from these beach areas.