Don't Swim at Venice Beaches After Rain, LA County Health Officials Warn

LOS ANGELES, CA — Los Angeles County health officials Monday urged people to avoid swimming, surfing and playing in ocean waters around discharging storm drains, creeks and rivers for the next several days.

During rainy weather, bacteria, "debris, trash and other public health hazards from city streets and mountain areas are likely to enter ocean waters though these outlets," according to a Department of Public Health statement.

"Discharging storm drains, creeks, and rivers only comprise a small portion of the beach," the statement said. "Therefore, anybody who wants to go to the beach will still be able to enjoy their outing ... (but) stay away from discharge sites."

The health advisory will be in effect until at least 7 a.m. Thursday.

Areas of the beach apart from discharging storm drains, creeks, and rivers are exempted from the advisory, which may be extended depending on further rainfall.

Recorded information on beach conditions is available on the county's beach closure hotline — (800) 525-5662 — or via the website www.PublicHealth.LACounty.gov/Beach/.

— City News Service, photo credit: Alexander Nguyen/Patch