County Public Health advises avoiding ocean water during and after heavy rain
Advisory applies during storms and for at least three days afterward
– The County of San Luis Obispo Department of Public Health is advising community members and visitors to avoid contact with ocean water during significant rainstorms and for at least three days afterward.
According to the department, stormwater runoff from streets, creeks, and watersheds can carry bacteria, viruses, and other disease-causing organisms into the ocean. Contact with contaminated ocean water can increase the risk of skin infections, respiratory illness, and gastrointestinal illness. Young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems may be more vulnerable to illness from waterborne pathogens.
Swimmers, surfers, waders, and others are advised to use extra caution after rain and avoid areas near creeks and rivers that flow into the ocean, storm drains and other runoff outlets, and beaches and coastal areas where stormwater is visibly entering the ocean. The department says disease-causing organisms may be present even when the water looks clean.
Public Health routinely monitors coastal water quality and posts advisories when elevated bacteria levels are detected. Community members can check current beach water quality information before heading to the coast at SurfSafeSLO.
For more information, visit www.slopublichealth.org.
