News - Beachgoers Alerted as Rain Increases Pollution Risk in San Diego Waters

In response to recent rainfall, San Diego County officials have issued a health advisory affecting all local beaches and bays. The advisory, announced Sunday by the San Diego County Department of Environmental Health and Quality, warns that rain-induced urban runoff can elevate bacteria levels significantly, posing health risks to ocean and bay water users, particularly near storm drains, creeks, rivers, and lagoon outlets. County officials recommend that residents abstain from diving, surfing, or swimming during wet weather and for 72 hours post-rainfall to prevent illness. The National Weather Service recorded diverse rainfall across regions on Saturday, with amounts ranging from 0.13 inches in the desert to nearly an inch in mountainous areas. The advisory focuses on specific locations such as Campland, Comfort Station, Coronado Shoreline, De Anza Cove, Glorietta Bay, La Jolla Cove, La Jolla Children's Pool, North Cove Vacation Isle, Tecolote Shores, and Tidelands Park, where bacteria levels have surpassed state health standards post-precipitation. Officials stress the risk of illness due to waterborne bacteria and have restricted access until testing confirms safe conditions. Residents and visitors can find continuous updates on advisories and closures by visiting sdbeachinfo.com or contacting 619-338-2073 for the latest information regarding the safety status of specific beach areas.