Because of the recent rainfall, Los Angeles County Department of is cautioning residents planning to visit Los Angeles County beaches to avoid swimming, surfing, and playing in ocean waters around discharging storm drains, creeks, and rivers. 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. Bacteria levels may remain elevated up to 3 days depending upon the intensity of the rain and the volume of runoff. Elevated bacteria levels in ocean water may cause illness, especially in children and the elderly.
Beaches in the Woolsey Fire burn area may experience additional hazards, including large elements of fire debris–telephone poles, fence posts, wire, metal sheeting and other construction materials, as well as potentially elevated bacteria, chemical and sediment levels.
Recorded information on beach conditions is available 24 hours a day on the County’s beach closure hotline: (800) 525-5662. Information and map on current water quality status is also available online: PublicHealth.LACounty.gov/Beach/