47,000 Gallons Of Sewage Spills Into Long Beach Waters

LONG BEACH, CA — All swimming areas in Long Beach are closed due to a 47,000-gallon sewage spill, city health officials announced.

According to the California Office of Emergency Services, the spill happened on Feb. 1 due to infrastructure challenges during heavy rainfall. A rain advisory is already in effect in Long Beach due to increases of bacteria in the ocean.

"Unlike that advisory, a sewage spill requires a mandatory closure," City Health Officer Dr. Anissa Davis said.

The city's health inspection team is monitoring water quality in the bay areas and will continue to do so until the water quality meets State standards.

All seven miles of Long Beach's coast are tested weekly to monitor bacterial levels. For the safety of the public, people were encouraged to pay close attention to any warning signs at the beach.

To view the status of Long Beach's recreational beach water quality, residents can visit the city's websiteor call 562-570-4199.