Malibu Beaches Under Bacteria Advisory Due To Recent Rain

MALIBU, CA — Public Health officials in Los Angeles County issued an advisory for all Malibu beaches due to possible increases of bacteria in ocean waters.

The warning was issued on Monday after brief rainfall hit the county and will be in effect until Feb. 2 the public health department said. Officials recommend avoiding contact with ocean water for three days after rainfall to avoid illness, especially near flowing storm drains, creeks and rivers.

“Bacteria, chemicals, debris, trash, and other public health hazards from city streets and mountain areas are likely to contaminate ocean waters at and around discharging storm drains, creeks, and rivers after a rainfall,” LA Public health said. “Individuals who enter the water in these areas could become ill.”

A recent spill of about 64,000 gallons of raw sewage on Jan. 25 in Marina del Rey also closed beaches from Venice to Playa del Rey. Closures were lifted at Venice Beach and Dockweiler State Beach on Jan. 29, but Mother’s Beach in Marina del Rey remained closed because bacteria levels continued to exceed state standards.

How long the beach stays closed will depend on the results of the daily water sample tests according to the health department. Beach closure signs will be posted until water conditions are found to be safe.

Residents along the coast of Malibu were also cautioned about gusty winds that could reach up to 30 to 50 miles per hour. The National Weather Service said the winds will persist until 6 p.m. Tuesday night.

A wind advisory was also in effect for the Santa Monica Mountains starting at 8 p.m. Monday and lasting through 6 p.m. Tuesday.

Officials urged residents to use extra caution while driving and to secure outdoor objects.

“Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects and make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result,” NWS officials said.