HUNTINGTON, NY — Suffolk County health officials are advising against swimming at 24 beaches across the Town of Huntington following heavy rainfall.
The beaches were placed under a rainfall-related advisory Friday because bacteria levels could exceed New York State standards, according to the Suffolk County Department of Health Services.
Affected beaches include locations along Cold Spring Harbor, Huntington Harbor and Bay, Centerport Harbor and Northport Harbor and Bay.
The Huntington beaches under the advisory are:
Health officials said stormwater runoff can carry contaminants into surrounding waters. Enclosed harbors and bays can be particularly affected because they experience limited tidal flushing.
Swimming and other water contact should be suspended until the waters have been flushed by two successive tidal cycles, or at least 24 hours after the rain ends, officials said.
The advisory is expected to be lifted Saturday, Aug. 22, at 8 a.m.
The Huntington beaches are among 63 across Suffolk County covered by the advisory.
For the latest information on beach advisories and closures, residents can call Suffolk County's Bathing Beach Hotline at 631-852-5822.
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