Los Angeles County health officials are urging residents to avoid local beaches this weekend after Friday’s rain raised concerns about potentially dangerous levels of ocean pollution.
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health said stormwater may have washed bacteria, litter and chemicals from city streets into coastal waters. The contamination risk is greatest near storm drains, creeks and rivers that empty into the ocean.
Officials also warned beach visitors not to come into contact with runoff flowing across the sand and into the water.
Runoff may also sweep partially submerged branches and logs into the ocean, creating a serious hazard for swimmers and other beachgoers, the department said.
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Children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems face a greater risk of illness or injury if they encounter the contaminated water.
The advisory is scheduled to remain in place until at least 8 a.m. Monday. Officials could extend it if additional rain falls. Rain-related beach warnings generally last 72 hours after precipitation ends.
Residents can review the county’s latest beach water-quality test results on its website.
As of Saturday morning, the forecast called for a slight chance of isolated showers before conditions improved. The remainder of the weekend was expected to be mostly dry and mild, with temperatures reaching roughly 71 to 73 degrees.
