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Environment

County Warns Against Water Contact In Coastal Waters Due To Storm

Storm drains bring urban runoff directly into the open water of Mission Bay on June 23, 2017.
Matthew Bowler
Storm drains bring urban runoff directly into the open water of Mission Bay on June 23, 2017.

County environmental health officials issued a water contact advisory Wednesday for all coastal beaches and bays due to contamination from urban runoff following rainfall.

The Department of Environmental Health warned swimmers, surfers and other water users that levels of bacteria can rise significantly in coastal waters, particularly near storm drains, creeks, rivers and lagoon outlets that discharge urban runoff. Water contact should be avoided for at least 72 hours following a rainstorm, according to the county.

The general rain advisory for urban runoff contamination applies to beaches from San Onofre State Beach south to Border Field, including Mission Bay and San Diego Bay.

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While many coastal outlets are posted with permanent metal warning signs, additional temporary signs are not posted for general advisories.

Residents can find information on beach closures at sdbeachinfo.com or by calling (619) 338-2073.