LACDPHMALIBU —On January 27, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH) posted a bacteria warning for Los Angeles County beaches due to wildfire debris in the run-off water causing bacteria and toxins to drain into the Pacific Ocean.
Several beaches from Malibu Beach to Playa del Ray are closed until further notice due to increased debris and bacteria from fire zones causing a public health hazard.
The LACDPH bacteria warning was issued on January 26th. The following information came directly from the LACDPH January 27, press release.
“The closure will remain in effect until further notice. Beach users are cautioned to avoid water and sand contact.
Ocean Water Quality Rain Advisory – through Thursday, January 30, 2025
Due to recent rainfall and the increase in fire debris along these ocean waters, an Ocean Water Closure has been declared for Las Flores State Beach to Santa Monica State Beach. Fire debris [in the] runoff [waters] and pollutants in the water and on the sand may contain toxic or carcinogenic chemicals.
The Ocean Water Quality Rain Advisory declared on January 26, 2025, will remain in effect at least until 8:00 am, Thursday, January 30, 2025, for all other Los Angeles County beaches. Beach users are cautioned to avoid water contact for at least 72 hours after significant rainfall. This advisory may be extended depending on further rainfall.
Ocean Water Quality Advisory Due to Fire Debris Updated Locations – Extends beyond January 30, 2025
Once the rain advisory is lifted, the ocean water advisory for Surfrider Beach to Las Flores State Beach and Santa Monica State Beach to Dockweiler State Beach at World Way will remain in effect due to fire debris runoff, which may contain toxic or carcinogenic chemicals, which can be harmful to health.
This includes any runoff that may flow onto or pond on the beach sand. Beach users are advised to stay away from any fire debris on the beach.
More information may be found on the advisory hotline at 800-525-5662 or on the LACDPH webpage, under Environmental Health.
By Sharon