Stay Out Of Ocean, Warn LA County Health Officials

LOS ANGELES, CA — This weekend's storm has resulted in potentially higher bacteria levels flushed down rivers and streams by rain water and prompted the Los Angeles Department of Public Health to advise people to stay out of the ocean and avoid water that ponds on beach sand.

The advisory for all Los Angeles County beaches will remain in effect until 8 a.m. Wednesday.

Water typically used for recreation in bays and beaches -- especially near discharging storm drains, creeks and rivers -- can be contaminated with bacteria, chemicals, debris, trash and other public health hazards that wash from city streets and mountain areas when it rains, health officials said.

The advisory could be extended if there is additional rainfall.

People can get updates on beach conditions 24/7 at 800-525-5662 or view a map of impacted areas at PublicHealth.LACounty.gov/Beach/.