Surfers, swimmers and other water-goers should avoid the beaches due to our recent storm, the Department of Environmental Health warned Friday.
The rain could significantly raise the levels of bacteria in the ocean and bays because of possible urban runoff from sources such as animal waste, soil and decomposing vegetation. As a result, Environmental Health issued a general advisory for the waterways.
While many coastal storm drains in the County have permanently posted signage warning of the runoff, temporary warning signs on beaches aren’t posted for general advisories.
Swimming, surfing and diving are discouraged in all coastal waters of San Diego County for 72 hours following the rain.
RELATED: Download County Water Quality Map App
Elevated bacteria levels can persist after a rainstorm depending upon the intensity of the storm, volume of runoff and ocean and current conditions.
Tijuana Slough National Wildlife Refuge and Border Field Park is currently closed at its shoreline due to sewage-contaminated flows from the Tijuana River. The closure will remain in effect until sample results, collected by Envivironmental Health, indicate safe bacteria levels.
For updates on beach closure information, visit www.sdbeachinfo.com, check out the County App Center or call the 24-hour hotline at 619-338-2073.
