LA County Lifeguards Make Nearly 500 Beach Rescues In One Weekend

SANTA MONICA, CA — High temperatures, spring water conditions and spring break made the perfect storm for Los Angeles County lifeguards, who announced this week that they rescued nearly 500 people at local beaches last weekend.

It was the busiest weekend of the year, lifeguards said in an Instagram video posted Tuesday. In addition to the ocean rescues, lifeguards performed 283 medical aids and 465 emergency vehicle responses throughout the county.

In March, lifeguards rescued a stranded pygmy sperm whale in Malibu. The whale sustained cuts and injuries from hitting rocks at Surfrider Beach and was ultimately euthanized, according to the Associated Press.

Lifeguards in February rescued an injured dolphin from a rocky portion of Dana Point.

LA County lifeguards rescued a dog from Zuma Beach on Jan. 24. The dog was found about 600 yards from the shore, the lifeguards said. Lifeguards put the dog on a rescue sled and brought it back to its owner. The adorable reunion was caught on video and posted to the lifeguards' Instagram.

Although the start of the week brought a reprieve from the heat, LA beaches still saw tumultuous weather and ocean conditions. High winds hit the Los Angeles coastline Monday and Tuesday along with a high surf advisory.

Bacteria warnings remain Thursday at multiple Los Angeles County beaches, including:

• Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica
• Mother’s Beach in Marina Del Rey
• Malibu Lagoon at Surfrider Beach
• Topanga Canyon Beach in Malibu
• Pico-Kenter Storm Drain at Santa Monica Beach, South Tower 20