Because of the recent rainfall, officials Friday warned people planning to visit Los Angeles County beaches to avoid swimming, surfing and playing in ocean waters around discharging storm drains, creeks, and rivers, through at least Monday morning.
According to the county's health officer, Dr. Muntu Davis, bacteria, chemicals, debris, trash, and other public health hazards from city streets and mountain areas are likely to contaminate ocean waters at and around these outlets after a rainfall, and people entering the water in these areas could become ill.
However, because discharging storm drains, creeks, and rivers only comprise a small portion of the beaches, the warning does not apply to other areas, Davis said.
The advisory will be in effect until at least 7:30 a.m. Monday, but could be extended, depending on whether there is more rainfall, Davis said.
Recorded information on beach conditions is available 24 hours a day on the county's beach closure hotline, 1-800-525-5662. Information is also available online at PublicHealth.LACounty.gov/Beach/.
