Juanita Beach Closed Due To High Bacteria Levels

KIRKLAND, WA — Kirkland neighbors have one fewer option to cool off from the excessive heat this week after routine testing found high bacteria levels in the water, according to the city. In a news release, Kirkland officials said King County's Water and Land Resources Division tested the water Monday and found thresholds exceeded the acceptable range.

The swimming area will remain closed for at least a week, when King County crews will revisit the beach to collect new samples and make a determination. During the closure, people and pets should not swim, drink, or otherwise have contact with the water.

The city said visitors can expect to see signs indicating the beach closure, and lifeguards will be on-site to assist people with questions. Juanita Beach joins others in the region currently closed for high bacteria levels, including Renton's Gene Coulon Memorial Beach, Seattle's Green Lake East and Bellevue's Meydenbauer Bay Beach.

Residents looking to cool off can still enjoy lifeguarded swimming areas at Houghton Beach and Waverly Beach, along with the Kirkland Urban Splash Pads and Feriton Spur Park Splash Pads. Cooling centers are also in place at the Peter Kirk Community Center and Kirkland libraries.

Readers can check for updates on beach closures around King County online.