SM BAY —Just when you thought it was safe to go back in the water.
Because of current rainfall, the county health officer is cautioning residents who are planning to visit Los Angeles County beaches to be careful of swimming, surfing, and playing in ocean waters around discharging storm drains, creeks, and rivers — at least until Wednesday afternoon.
Bacteria, debris, trash, and other public health hazards from city streets and mountain areas are likely to enter ocean waters though these outlets.
Santa Monica has storm drains running along Montana and Ashland avenues and Wilshire and Pico boulevards, according to an online map provided by the county's Department of Public Works.
"Fortunately, discharging storm drains, creeks, and rivers only comprises a small portion of the beach, and therefore, anybody who wants to go to the beach will be able to enjoy their outing," said Dr. Jonathan E. Fielding, health officer. "We do advise swimmers and surfers to stay away from the storm drains, creeks and rivers as there is the possibility that bacteria or chemicals from debris and trash may contaminate the water near and around these areas, and some individuals may become ill."
Recorded information on beach conditions is available 24-hours a day on the county's beach closure hotline: (800) 525-5662. Information is also available online at our www.publichealth.lacounty.gov/beach/.
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