06/12/2026
Please keep in mind that heavy rains that occur after our time of sample collection can cause an increased presence of bacteria.
Heavy rainfall can temporarily make beaches unsafe for swimming because it can potentially trigger a surge in harmful bacteria, especially E. coli and enterococci, which are common indicators of f***l contamination
Why Bacteria Rise After Rain
• Stormwater runoff: Rainwater flows over streets, parking lots, farms, and lawns, picking up animal waste, pet waste, fertilizers, pesticides, oil, trash, and sediment.
• Combined Sewer Overflows (CSOs): In older cities, stormwater and sewage share the same pipes. Heavy rain can overwhelm these systems, causing untreated or partially treated wastewater to discharge into rivers, lakes, and nearshore waters.
• Wildlife and human waste: Runoff can carry f***l matter from animals and people, along with natural sources of bacteria like soil and sand.
Bacteria That Cause Advisories
• Enterococci: Commonly used by public health agencies to indicate f***l contamination; can cause gastrointestinal illness, skin infections, and other health issues FOX Weather+1.
• E. coli: An indicator of f***l pollution; while not all strains are dangerous, elevated levels suggest possible presence of other harmful microbes.
Health Risks
Swimming in contaminated water can lead to:
• Gastroenteritis (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps)
• Skin rashes, ear/eye/nose/throat infections
• In rare cases, more serious illnesses from other pathogens.
Children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems are most at risk U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
How Long to Wait
Local beach programs often recommend avoiding swimming for at least 24-48 hours after heavy rain to allow water quality to improve.
What to Do
• Check local advisories: Many states and counties post beach water quality updates online or via email alerts.
• Avoid direct contact with water in affected areas until cleared.
• Shower and wash hands after swimming if you’ve been in contaminated water.
