Rain Advisory For OC Beaches: Huntington Beach

HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA — Runoff from the recent rains have led the environmental health staff to declare a Rain Advisory for all Orange County Beaches, the Orange County Healthcare Agency reported.

With heavy rains expected through late Thursday night, even with sunny weather this weekend, elevated levels of bacteria can continue for at least three days after this significant storm event.

"The Environmental Health staff advises swimmers that levels of bacteria can rise significantly in ocean and bay waters adjacent to storm drains, creeks and rivers during and after rainstorms," they said.

According to the OC Healthcare Agency, swimmers should avoid coastal waters impacted by discharging storm drains, creeks and rivers, and beach users should avoid contact with any runoff on the beach during dry or wet weather conditions.

When will it be safe to go back into the water? By Sunday afternoon or Monday morning, according to officials. Always check water quality with OCBeachInfo first.

Patch Staff Photo