Ocean Water Use Warning Issued for Several Los Angeles County Beaches
Los Angeles County, April 30, 2025 – The Los Angeles County Department of Public health has issued an ocean water use warning for several popular beaches due to elevated bacterial levels. residents planning to visit these locations are advised to avoid swimming, surfing, and playing in the ocean water until further notice.
- Malibu Lagoon at Surfrider beach: 100 yards up and down the coast from the public restrooms.
- Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica: 100 yards up and down the coast from the pier.
- Pico-Kenter storm drain at Santa monica Beach (Santa Monica South Tower 20): 100 yards up and down the coast from the storm drain.
- Inner Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro: Entire swim area.
- Escondido Creek at Escondido state Beach: 100 yards up and down the coast from the creek.
- Castlerock Storm Drain at Topanga County Beach: 100 yards up and down the coast from the storm drain.
The warnings were issued after recent testing revealed that bacterial levels exceeded established health standards. The specific types of bacteria were not disclosed in the initial announcement, but elevated levels generally indicate potential contamination from sewage or storm runoff.
Understanding the Risks
Exposure to water with high bacterial levels can lead to various health issues, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Potential health risks include:
- Gastrointestinal illnesses (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
- Skin infections
- Respiratory infections
- Eye and ear infections
the Department of Public Health emphasizes the importance of adhering to the warnings to minimize the risk of illness. They are actively monitoring the water quality and will provide updates as conditions change.
Official Statements
While no direct quotes were provided in the initial announcement, the Department of Public Health urges residents to exercise caution. The department’s website states, Our priority is to ensure the safety and well-being of our residents and visitors. We encourage everyone to heed these warnings and avoid contact with the ocean water in the affected areas.
Resources and Contact Information
For up-to-date information on beach conditions, residents can call the County’s beach closure hotline at 1-800-525-5662. A map of impacted locations and additional details are available on the Department of Public Health website: PublicHealth.LACounty.gov/Beach/.
For questions or concerns,contact the Department of Public Health directly at (626) 430-5360 or via email at media@ph.lacounty.gov.
FAQ: Beach Water Quality
A: Bacterial levels exceeded health standards during recent testing.
A: risks include gastrointestinal illnesses, skin infections, and respiratory infections.
A: The warnings will remain in effect until further notice, pending retesting and improved water quality.
A: Call 1-800-525-5662 or visit PublicHealth.LACounty.gov/Beach/.
Background on Water Quality Monitoring
Los Angeles County regularly monitors its beaches for bacterial contamination to protect public health. Samples are collected and analyzed to detect the presence of bacteria such as *E. coli* and enterococcus, which are indicators of fecal contamination. When levels exceed state standards, warnings or closures are issued to prevent exposure.
The sources of contamination can vary, including storm drain runoff, sewage spills, and natural sources such as bird and animal waste. Efforts are ongoing to identify and mitigate these sources to improve water quality and ensure safe recreational use of the beaches.
