Long Beach

Coastal Waters Remain Closed in Long Beach After Sewage Spill

Officials hope levels will be low enough to reopen beaches by Tuesday.

Beach closures remained in effect Monday in Long Beach after a sewage spill sent high levels of bacteria into the coastal waters last week.

Approximately 250,000 gallons of sewage spill entered the storm system about 33 miles upstream from Long Beach after a San Gabriel sewage line ruptured on Sept. 15, health officials said.

All swimming areas in Long Beach's open coastal beaches were ordered closed for water contact until lab results confirmed the water safe.

Daily water samples were being collected and tested routinely to monitor bacterial levels. Officials hope levels will be low enough to reopen beaches by Tuesday.

Long Beach Health Officer Dr. Mitchell Kushner also issued a rain advisory for all recreational beaches and bays in the City of Long Beach.

Health officials recommend people avoid all ocean water contact for at least 72 hours after rainfall, due to high levels of bacteria from storm drains, rivers, and polluted runoff.

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