City Health Officer, Dr. Anissa Davis, has lifted the closure order on open coastal beaches after consecutive lab results demonstrated the water to be within State water quality standards. Colorado Lagoon South remains temporarily closed until further notice.
Open coastal beaches were closed for recreational water contact starting Saturday, Dec. 26 following a sewage spill and subsequent weather advisory. The cause of the sewage overflow was determined to be the result of a control system failure at the Long Beach Water Reclamation Plant, which is owned and operated by the Los Angeles County Sanitation District. State law requires the temporary closure and posting at beaches in these situations, out of an abundance of caution, until the water quality meets State requirements.
Long Beach has approximately seven miles of public beach. A press release from the City stated that weekly water samples are collected and tested routinely to monitor bacterial levels to protect the safety of the public. The community is also encouraged by the City to pay close attention to any warning signs posted at the beach.
Beaches are open daily from sunrise to sunset for recreational use including swimming, kayaking, walking, running, kitesurfing and similar activities. Gatherings of any size are prohibited in accordance with the City’s health orders. Face covering and physical distancing protocols remain in place to help limit the spread of COVID-19.
For the latest status on Long Beach recreational beach water quality, the public can call the Health Department’s Water Quality Information Line at 562.570.4199 or visit the City’s website.
