by LOS ANGELES — Health officials have issued a sweeping rain advisory for all Los Angeles County beaches, warning residents to avoid ocean water due to potentially unsafe contamination levels following this week’s rainfall.
The alert covers every coastal area of the county and focuses especially on locations near storm drains, creeks, and river outlets, where runoff poses the highest risk.
Why the Advisory Was Issued
Following recent storms, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health reported that ocean and bay waters may contain elevated levels of bacteria and chemical pollutants.
Heavy rain often washes debris and contamination from city streets and canyons directly into coastal waters, creating conditions that may lead to illness for swimmers, surfers, and anyone entering the ocean.
A Public Health news release stressed the potential hazards:
“Ocean and bay recreational waters, especially near discharging storm drains, creeks, and rivers, can be contaminated with bacteria, chemicals, debris, trash, and other public health hazards from city streets and mountain areas after a rainfall.”
The department emphasized that contact with contaminated water can lead to gastrointestinal illness, skin rashes, and other health issues, urging residents to stay away from affected areas until testing confirms that conditions have improved.
How Long the Advisory Will Last
According to Public Health, the rain advisory will remain active until at least Saturday, Nov. 22, at 8 a.m., though officials cautioned that the end time may change depending on additional rainfall.
Because bacterial levels tend to spike following rain and then gradually decline, the department relies on ongoing testing to determine when water quality has returned to safe standards. If additional storms hit the county, the advisory may be extended to ensure that beachgoers are not exposed to harmful contamination.
More Rain on the Way for Southern California
The timing of the advisory coincides with another storm expected to arrive in Southern California. The National Weather Service forecasts widespread light to moderate rain beginning late Wednesday and continuing into Thursday and Friday.
Forecasters say rain chances begin around 10% to 20% late Wednesday night into Thursday morning. By Thursday evening, those chances increase dramatically to over 80%, potentially prolonging the contamination risks.
While this upcoming storm is not expected to deliver as much rainfall as the region’s previous systems, saturated ground conditions and the possibility of thunderstorms still pose concerns. Officials are particularly watching burn scar areas, where loose soil and unstable terrain can lead to mudflows even during moderate rainfall.
Environmental and Public Safety Concerns
Rain-related contamination in ocean water is a longstanding issue in Los Angeles County, especially in urban areas where storm runoff carries pollutants directly into the surf zone. Everything from motor oil and pesticides to trash and animal waste can enter waterways after a storm, quickly degrading conditions at local beaches.
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Public health specialists recommend avoiding ocean water for at least 72 hours after any significant rainfall, even if an official advisory is not in place. The county’s announcement reinforces this guidance, citing elevated risks during and after storm events.
In addition to health concerns, environmental agencies are monitoring water quality impacts on marine ecosystems, which may experience stress from increased pollutants and debris during peak runoff periods.
Staying Informed About Beach Conditions
Residents can monitor beach water quality conditions year-round by checking the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health’s website, which provides updates 24/7. The site lists current advisories, water test results, and location-specific warnings to help beachgoers plan safely.
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