Public advised to stay out of ocean water due to high bacteria levels

By Dean Fioresi

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    California (KCAL/KCBS) — Yet another powerful storm that doused Southern California has led to potentially high bacteria levels flushing down inland rivers and streams and into the ocean, prompting health officials to issue an advisory on Saturday.

Los Angeles County Department of Public Health officials say that the heavy rains could cause discharge from drains, creek and rivers that is contaminated with bacteria, chemicals, debris and trash from city streets into the ocean.

“Individuals who enter the water in these areas could become ill,” the statement said.

The advisory will remain in effect until Wednesday morning at 8 a.m., or 72 hours after the rainfall is predicted to end.

Officials say that the advisory may be further extended depending on how long rain continues to hit the area.

Updates are available by contacting the Department of Public Health at (800) 525-5662 or by visiting PublicHealth.LACounty.gov/Beach.

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