Seasonal & Holidays
Easton's Beach, Goddard Park Closed To Swimming
The beach closures come one day after heavy downpours in the state.
NEWPORT, RI — The Rhode Island Department of Health announced the first two beach closures of the season due to high bacteria counts. Goddard Park in Warwick and Easton's Beach in Newport were both closed Friday morning.
The announcement came after a day of heavy rain in Rhode Island, which often leads to high bacteria levels in the water due to stormwater runoff. Once a beach is closed, the water is retested daily until bacteria levels reach a safe threshold.
The latest beach closure information will be available throughout the summer by calling the department's recorded beach line: 401-222-2751.
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Because of the coronavirus pandemic, beach season is shaping up to look much different in Rhode Island this year. All beachgoers are encouraged to follow social distancing guidelines, staying at least 6 feet away from others both on the shore and in the water. Face coverings are strongly recommended in all crowded, public areas such as restrooms, concession areas and busy parking lots, but are not needed when distancing is easy, such as while sitting on a beach blanket.
Read more: Rhode Island Beach Closures: What You Need To Know
Find out what's happening in Newportfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
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