Politics & Government
Rain Leads to High Bacteria Levels on Newport Beach Coastline
County officials warn swimmers and beach users to avoid coastal waters affected by storm runoff.
With showers coming down, taking a swim in the water off Newport Beach may not be a good idea, Orange County health officials say.
County staff recently issued bacteria warnings for a number local beaches including spots in Newport Beach, Seal Beach, San Clemente and Dana Point.
According to the Orange County Health Care Agency, Environmental Division, bacteria levels along Newport Beach coastline “exceed state health standards and may cause illness.”
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County staff warn that rain can lead bacteria levels to rise in ocean and bay waters next to storm drains, creeks and rivers during and after rain storms. The increase in bacteria levels can continue for at least three days depending on the intensity of the rain and the amount of runoff.
“Swimmers should avoid coastal waters impacted by discharging storm drains, creeks and rivers, and beach users should avoid contact with any runoff on the beach during dry or wet weather conditions,” according to a statement on the county’s website.
Find out what's happening in Newport Beach-Corona Del Marwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Click ocbeachinfo.com to see the current bacteria levels of other Orange County city coastlines.
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