Swimming Banned at Three LA County Beaches After Bacteria Spike

Beachgoers across Los Angeles County are being urged to stay out of the water at several popular spots due to elevated bacteria levels. County health officials announced closures Wednesday for Mother's Beach in Marina del Rey, Inner Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro, and the area around the Santa Monica Pier after recent tests showed contamination above state standards, increasing the risk of illness.

However, there is some good news for beach lovers: Bel Air Bay at Will Rogers State Beach has reopened after retesting confirmed the water is safe for swimming. Residents are encouraged to check an updated map and a 24-hour hotline for the latest beach conditions before heading to the coast.

The closures come as part of routine water quality monitoring conducted by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. Officials advise that swimming in contaminated water can cause gastrointestinal illness, eye and ear infections, and skin rashes.

The health department will continue testing and will lift advisories once bacteria levels return to safe limits.