Rain Brings Urban Runoff To Beaches

The Department of Environmental Health has issued a General Advisory for the coastal waters of San Diego County due to recent rainfall.

Swimmers, surfers, and other ocean users are warned that the levels of bacteria can rise significantly in ocean and bay waters, especially near storm drains, creeks, rivers, and lagoon outlets that discharge urban runoff.  

Urban runoff may contain large amounts of bacteria from a variety of sources such as animal waste, soil, and decomposing vegetation. 

While many coastal storm drains within San Diego County are permanently posted with white metal warning signs, additional temporary warning signs are not posted for General Advisories.

Activities such as swimming, surfing and diving should be avoided in
all coastal waters for 72 hours following rain. 

This includes all coastal beaches and all of Mission Bay and San Diego Bay.  Elevated bacteria levels can persist after a rainstorm depending upon the
intensity of the storm, volume of runoff and ocean and current
conditions.