High Bacteria Counts Close Oakland Beach in Warwick

WARWICK, RI — The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) closed Oakland Beach for swimming on Friday because of high bacteria counts in the water.

"RIDOH will continue to monitor and review beach water quality regularly to ensure safe bathing throughout the summer season," Public Information Officer Joseph Wendelken told Patch in a press release. "The status of a beach may change on a daily basis."

According to RIDOH, other bodies of water in Rhode Island may be affected by algae.

"People are advised to avoid contact with water bodies that exhibit bright green coloration in the water or at the water surface and/or dense floating algal mats that form on the water's surface," Wendelken said. "The water may look like green paint, thick pea soup, or green cottage cheese."

The most recent information on beach closings is available through a recorded message on RIDOH's beach telephone line at 401-222-2751.

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