L.A. Beaches Closed Until Further Notice Due To Potentially Toxic Runoff from Recent Fires
The recent rains and fires in Los Angeles have caused concerns about water quality along the coastline. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has ordered a water closure for roughly eight miles of beaches from Las Flores State Beach to Santa Monica State Beach, including popular surfing spots like Topanga.
The closure is due to fire debris and pollutants that may contain toxic or carcinogenic chemicals. This includes any runoff that may flow onto or pond on the beach sand. The closure will remain in effect until further notice, and beachgoers are advised to stay away from any fire debris on the beach.
In addition to the water closure, a Water Quality Rain Advisory will be in effect for all Los Angeles County beaches until Thursday morning. This is due to the rain that fell earlier this week, which can carry potentially harmful bacteria to the coast.
A separate Water Quality Advisory will also remain in effect for all Malibu beaches until further notice. This is due to the potential for fire debris to be carried into the ocean. The impacted area includes Surfrider to Las Flores State Beach and Santa Monica State Beach to Dockweiler State Beach at World Way in Playa del Rey.
The county health officials strongly urge people to avoid contact with the ocean water in these areas. Many homes along the affected beaches were destroyed in the Palisades Fire, leading to concerns about toxic runoff and debris. The safety and well-being of beachgoers is a top priority, and these closures and advisories will continue until the water quality is deemed safe.
Original Article: https://deadline.com/2025/01/l-a-beaches-closed-toxic-runoff-1236272315/