Urgent Health Warning Issued for Popular Beaches Amid Punishing Heat Wave

Jumping into the ocean may seem like the perfect way to escape the sweltering heat in California, but the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is warning beach-goers to stay away.

On Thursday, LACDPH updated its list of beaches they deem a health risk due to elevated bacteria levels exceeding state health standards. Per the department, recent water samples showed the levels “may increase the risk of illness.”

Currently, the warning applies to Dockweiler State Beach, Leo Carrillo State Beach Malibu, Walnut Creek at Paradise Cove, Santa Monica North Tower 12, Topsail Street extension in Venice, Mother's Beach in Marina Del Rey, Topanga Canyon Beach in Malibu and Escondido Creek at Escondido State Beach.

Other Beaches Cleared

There was some good news in the announcement as well, as a handful of previously flagged beaches have since had their warnings lifted.

Among those now cleared are the Santa Monica Pier, Inner Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro, Marie Canyon Storm Drain at Puerco Beach, Santa Monica Canyon Creek at Will Rogers State Beach, and Malibu Lagoon at Surfrider Beach.

Keep an eye out for the most updated listings here.

Bacteria Cause and Effect

According to LACDPH, there are several factors that lead to elevated bacteria levels in the ocean.

“Including stormwater runoff after rain events, sewage spills or leaks, and animal waste from birds, pets, or marine mammals,” the department told Fox News Digital. “Urban runoff from rivers and creeks can also carry contaminants into coastal waters. In addition, warmer water temperatures and the decomposition of organic material can promote bacterial growth.”

“Swimming in water with bacteria can make you sick or cause skin infections,” they also warned, adding that “children, the elderly, and those who have weak immune systems are at higher risk of getting sick or infected.”

Heatwave Across the West Coast

The beach warnings come as a blistering heat wave continues across the West coast, where temperatures have been reaching 25 to 40 degrees above normal. In Los Angeles, the hottest conditions are reportedly expected between Thursday and Saturday, with many likely flocking to the beach to cool off.

Earlier this week, LACHD issued an extreme heat warning across the area, extending from Santa Monica Mountains to Downtown LA and San Fernando Valley. The warning is usually issued “when dangerously hot weather is happening or about to happen, creating a high risk of heat-related illness for everyone.”

That warning is in effect through Friday, March 20. The department recommends drinking plenty of water, avoiding going outside during peak heat hours, wearing light clothing and, for those without air conditioning, visiting cool spaces.

It's not just Los Angeles feeling the heat, however, as the National Weather Service says extreme heat warnings have also been issued throughout Nevada and Arizona. Red flag warnings, which are issued when critical fire weather conditions—including strong winds, low humidity and warm temperatures—are occurring, have also been set in Wyoming, South Dakota and Nebraska.

According to ABC News, heat alerts are in place for 40 million Americans this coming weekend, with temperatures from 96 to 109 degrees expected. Record highs could hit all the way from Los Angeles to Memphis, Tennessee.