Ocean Water Quality, High Surf Advisory Issued For Marina Del Rey

MARINA DEL REY, CA — An ocean water quality rain advisory was issued through Thursday for all Los Angeles County beaches and a high surf advisory is in effect for the LA coast, including Catalina, and Santa Barbara Islands on Tuesday, officials said.

"A rain advisory is issued when there is significant rainfall that may cause bacteria levels in ocean waters to increase," according to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health.

Bacteria levels can increase significantly during and after rainstorms, as contaminants within the runoff enter the ocean.

"Bacteria levels may remain elevated up to three days depending upon the intensity of the rain and the volume of runoff," health officials said. "Elevated bacteria levels in ocean water may cause illness, especially in children and the elderly. The Department of Public Health recommends that beach users avoid contact with ocean water for a period of 3 days after significant rainfall, especially near flowing storm drains, creeks and rivers."

The water quality advisory will be in effect through at least 7 a.m. Thursday. It could be extended depending on further rainfall, officials said.

The National Weather Service predicts that waves will reach 4 to 7 feet on exposed west-facing beaches and gradually subside, agency officials said. The advisory will be in effect until 3 p.m. Tuesday.

The high surf could impact beaches creating beach erosion and dangerous swimming conditions.

"There is an increased risk of drowning," officials said. Dangerous rip currents are expected, and these currents can pull swimmers and surfers out to sea. Waves can wash people off beaches and rocks, and capsize small boats near shore."

People were urged to use caution.

"If caught in a rip current, relax and float," officials said. "Don`t swim against the current. If able, swim in a direction following the shoreline. If unable to escape, face the shore and call or wave for help."

On Monday, Los Angeles County lifeguards reported the "rare sight" of slush and hail on the sand in Manhattan Beach, warning that stormwater carried to the coast can lead to significant beach erosion, while also carrying substantial pollutants to the ocean.

- City News Service and Patch Editor Nicole Charky contributed to this report.