Multiple beaches deemed unsafe as officials issue urgent health warnings to public

Several popular California beaches are under a public health advisory due to elevated bacteria levels in ocean water.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health issued an updated warning March 17, advising residents and visitors to avoid swimming, surfing orplaying in oceanwater in affected areas.

The warning comes as temperatures across parts of the West are running as much as 35 degrees above average,reported — with the hottest conditions expected between Thursday and Saturday.

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Recent water samples showed

Beaches in Los Angeles are under a health advisory due to elevated bacteria levels.(Mario Tama/Getty Images)

Additional warnings are in place near parts of Santa Monica Beach, Venice Beach and several Malibu locations.

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Areas surrounding the Santa Monica Pier, Topanga Canyon Beach, Surfrider Beach and Escondido State Beach are included in the advisory, along with sections near storm drains and creeks where runoff can affect water quality.

The warning comes as a heat wave sweeps across parts of the West.(Raul Roa/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

“Elevated bacteria levels in the ocean can be caused by several factors,” the department noted, “including stormwater runoff after rain events, sewage spills or leaks, and animal waste from birds, pets, or marine mammals.Urban runoff from rivers and creeks can also carry contaminants into coastal waters.In addition, warmer water temperatures and the decomposition of organic material can promote bacterial growth.”

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a range of illnesses, including stomach issues, fever and infections affecting the eyes, ears, nose or throat, health officials said.

“Swimming in water with bacteria can make you sick or cause skin infections.Children, the elderly, and those who haveweak immune systems are at higher risk of getting sick or infected,” the department said. 

Contact with polluted ocean water can cause illness, including stomach problems, fever, and infections of the eyes, ears, nose or throat.(Kevin Carter/Getty Images)

The department conducts routine water testing at beaches throughout the region and issues advisories when bacteria levels rise above safety thresholds.

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Conditions can change quickly depending on weather and environmental factors, officials added. 

Beachgoers can check current conditions through the county’s public health website beforeheading to the coast.

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At this time, the advisory is a warning, not a full beach closure.

The county’s public health website is updated as conditions change, the site notes.