Bacteria Counts Close Beaches in Warren, Middletown

The state Department of Health is recommending Atlantic Beach Club Bach in Middletown and Warren Town Beach in Warren be closed to swimming due to high bacteria counts.

Officials are monitoring water quality and will issue a recommendation for re-opening when the areas are safe for swimming, the department said in a release.

Beach status can change daily, so check www.health.ri.gov/beaches for the latest information.

Bacteria counts in local waters can increase after periods of heavy rain, especially if preceded by periods of extended dryness. Rhode Island received about 1 to 3 inches, depending on location, between Sunday and Tuesday. That rainfall came after one of the driest Mays on record.

Runoff delivers nitrogen from pet waste, parking lots, lawns and other human-related activity into the water. That nitrogen is a food source for naturally-occurring bacteria.