Public warned to avoid ocean water following rain
Rainwater runoff can carry high levels of disease-causing organisms
– The San Luis Obispo County Public Health Department has issued a public advisory urging residents to avoid contact with ocean water during and for at least three days after significant rainstorms, including the recent storm.
Rainwater runoff can carry high levels of disease-causing organisms, including bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, from watersheds and urban areas into the ocean. Exposure to these pathogens can lead to skin, respiratory, and intestinal illnesses. Young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems are at heightened risk.
The health department recommends that surfers, swimmers, and others refrain from oceanwater contact during this period, especially near creeks, rivers, storm drains, and other runoff outlets that empty into the ocean.
For more information about beach water quality, visit the department’s beach water quality website or call the Ocean Water Monitoring Program at (805) 788-3411.
