Rain Runoff Prompts Health Warning for Orange County Beaches

With rain dousing Southland streets and hillsides and sending storm runoff into the ocean, the Orange County Health Care Agency is warning of elevated bacteria levels at the beach near storm drains, creeks and rivers could be contaminated with litter and bacteria.

County officials urged people to avoid going into the ocean in areas where runoff is spilling into the ocean.

“Swimmers should avoid coastal waters impacted by discharging storm drains, creeks and rivers, and beach users should avoid contact with any runoff on the beach during dry or wet weather conditions,” county health officials warned.

The county’s rain advisory will remain in effect through Thursday, but could be expended depending on further rainfall.

• City News Service

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