Ocean Advisory Issued at 28th Street in Manhattan Beach
Jul 30, 2021 10:26AM ● By Jeanne Fratello
An ocean "advisory" has been issued for the beach at 28th St. in Manhattan Beach near the storm drain. That advisory, however, is believed to be part of a normal fluctuation in bacteria levels, not necessarily connected to the recent Hyperion waste treatment plant spill.
An advisory is issued when bacterial levels exceed state
standards and may cause illness. It is different from a beach closure,
which is issued when the water has been directly contaminated by sewage
or other health hazards. During an advisory, the beach remains open but beachgoers, especially those with health issues, are urged to use caution.
Bacteria levels can
increase significantly during and after rainstorms, as contaminants
within the runoff enters the ocean. Manhattan Beach experienced a small amount of rain on Tuesday, July 27.
Bacteria levels may remain elevated
up to three days depending upon the intensity of the rain and the volume of
runoff. LACDPH
recommends that beach users avoid contact with ocean water for three days after significant rainfall, especially near flowing storm
drains, creeks and rivers.
An earlier advisory was issued, and then rescinded, for 28th Street in Manhattan Beach on July 13 following the July 12 Hyperion spill. El Segundo and Dockweiler beaches were initially closed following that spill; they currently remain under advisory.
In general, beachgoers are urged to be careful of swimming, surfing, and playing in ocean waters around discharging storm drains, creeks, and rivers.
The Beach Cities of Redondo Beach, Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach,
Palos Verdes Estates and Rancho Palos Verdes jointly collect water
samples within their cities, once a week throughout the year.
