A famed California beach has reopened after sewage from the Tijuana River flowed into recreational waters, though other beaches remain closed and pending rain could threaten water quality further.
San Diego County officials said Monday that Avenida Lunar beach in Coronado will reopen after its water quality samples met quality standards.
Several other beaches including parts of the Tijuana Slough Shoreline, Silver Strand Shoreline, Imperial Beach Shoreline, and Coronado, remain closed.
Water sampling must confirm the beaches are safe before they are re-opened. “Bacteria levels exceed health standards. Avoid water contact in the closure area,” the warning says about the beaches.
Officials advised the public to avoid the water those places as it is impacted by sewage and may cause illness.
Advisories have been issued for Avenida de la Playa, Campland, La Jolla Children’s Pool, North Cove Vacation Isle, San Luis Rey River and Tidelands Park.
“Beach goers are advised that bacteria levels have exceeded state health standards and may cause illness,” officials said.
Officials advised beachgoers to express caution last week as the Tijuana River flowed into the ocean.
“The Tijuana River is flowing and reaching recreational waters. Beachgoers are advised that the ocean water contains sewage and may cause illness,” the San Diego Department of Environmental Health and Quality said in a statement Saturday. “Ocean waters will remain closed until sampling and field observations confirm these areas are safe for water contact.”
Rain in the forecast for Southern California Tuesday could complicate beachgoers’ trips further. Precipitation generally increases the risk of elevated bacteria levels in water.
