2 RI Beaches Close For Swimming Because Of High Water Bacteria Levels

PORTSMOUTH, RI — Two beaches in Rhode Island have closed for swimming just at the start of Labor Day weekend, state health officials said Tuesday.

The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) recommended temporarily shutting down swimming at Second Beach in Middletown and Sandy Point Beach in Portsmouth because of high bacteria levels making it unsafe to swim.

RIDOH officials said they will continue to monitor and review beach water quality regularly to ensure safe bathing throughout summer.

The status of a beach may change as new data become available. The most up-to-date beach information is available through a recorded message on RIDOH's beaches telephone line (401-222-2751).