Bacteria Warning Issued For Malibu Due To Recent Rainfall

MALIBU, CA — The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health issued a rain advisory due to possible increases of bacteria in ocean waters in all Los Angeles beaches, including Malibu, due to recent rainfall.

The warning was issued until Tuesday, Sept. 13 at 10:30 a.m. after Southern California was hit by remnants of Tropical Storm Kay over the weekend.

“Bacteria levels can increase significantly during and after rainstorms, as contaminants within the runoff enters the ocean,” according to the LA County Department of Public Health. “Elevated bacteria levels in ocean water may cause illness, especially in children and the elderly.”

Officials recommend avoiding contact with ocean water for three days after rainfall to avoid illness, especially near flowing storm drains, creeks and rivers.

RAT Beach at Malaga Creek near Torrance and Palos Verdes is closed as a result of a sewage spill that occurred on Sept. 7.

Recorded information on beach conditions is available 24- hours a day on the county's beach closure hotline: 1-800- 525-5662. Information is also available on the LA County Department of Health’s website.

Check out an interactive map of LA County beaches' bacteria levels using this link.