Weather
Rainstorms Prompt Citywide Ocean Bacteria Warning In Long Beach
Public Health officials cautioned residents against swimming at local beaches for at least 72 hours after rainfall.
LONG BEACH, CA — The Long Beach Department of Public Health issued a rain advisory due to possible increases of bacteria in ocean waters in all Long Beach beaches due to recent rainfall.
The warning was issued until Saturday, March 9 at 3 p.m. after the county experienced two days of heavy rainfall. The advisory will be extended as rain persists at county beaches.
“After any significant rainfall, unhealthy conditions may result from increased runoff from storm drain outlets and rivers, which eventually reach the City’s beaches,” according to tLong Becah City Health Officer Dr. Anissa Davis. “State law requires all local public health agencies with recreational swimming areas to notify the public when conditions might affect the health of swimmers.”
Find out what's happening in Long Beachfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Officials recommend avoiding contact with ocean water for three days after rainfall to avoid illness, especially near flowing storm drains, creeks and rivers.
Recorded information on beach conditions is available 24 hours a day on the City Health Department's website.
Find out what's happening in Long Beachfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
