Three popular Jersey Shore beaches, alongside several global destinations in California, New York, Ireland, and the UK, are currently under swimming advisories due to elevated bacterial levels in the water. This widespread concern, triggered by high levels of fecal bacteria, has led authorities in these regions to issue warnings to swimmers, urging caution and heightened awareness. These advisories impact not only the well-loved beaches of the Jersey Shore but also those in California, New York, Ireland, and the UK, affecting locals and travelers alike. As health officials monitor the situation, visitors are advised to stay informed and adhere to local safety recommendations.
Current Beach Advisories:
While the number of affected beaches has decreased, three locations in Monmouth County remain under swimming advisories as of the latest update:
- Spring Lake Borough Ocean Beaches (Brown Ave S & York Ave)
- Atlantic Highlands Borough Bay Beach (Highlands Rec Center)
- Belmar Borough River Beach (L Street Beach)
Though these beaches are still under advisories, no closures have been reported, which is a positive sign. Local authorities are actively monitoring water quality and conducting daily tests to ensure that the water is safe for swimming. Visitors to these areas are urged to stay updated on water conditions and adhere to all safety recommendations.
Freshwater Lakes Under Advisory:
In addition to the oceanfront beaches, several freshwater lakes in the area are also under advisories due to elevated bacteria levels. These include:
- Lake Barnegat – Middle Beach (Lacey Township)
- Harry Wright Lake High Beach (Manchester Township)
- Harry Wright Lake Low Beach (Manchester Township)
- Camp Linwood McDonald (Sandyston Township)
Residents and visitors to these areas are also advised to stay informed and avoid swimming if advisories are in place. These warnings are part of ongoing efforts to keep the public safe and to prevent any waterborne illnesses.
Additionally, Parvin State Park in Salem County remains closed to swimming due to a harmful algal bloom. Algal blooms are another significant water quality concern, as they can produce toxins that are harmful to both humans and animals.
Why the Swimming Advisory Was Issued:
Swimming advisories are issued when water samples exceed 104 colony-forming units (CFUs) of enterococci bacteria per 100 milliliters of water. Enterococci is a type of bacteria that serves as an indicator of potential contamination, which could stem from sources like human or animal waste. When these bacteria are detected in high concentrations, it suggests that the water may be unsafe for recreational activities, including swimming.
Local authorities conduct daily water testing to ensure public safety. If the bacteria levels remain elevated, beaches will remain under advisory until the water quality improves. If a second sample test still shows high levels of contamination, the beach will be closed until the water quality falls below the acceptable limit.
Elevated bacteria levels are often linked to stormwater runoff, which occurs when rainfall washes contaminants into bodies of water, including oceans and lakes. As a result, high bacteria levels are more common following heavy rainfall, which can introduce waste from urban and rural areas into the water.
Health Risks of Polluted Water:
Swimming in water that contains high levels of bacteria can lead to a range of health issues. The risks associated with polluted water include:
- Gastrointestinal problems – such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps.
- Respiratory issues – including sore throat, cough, and runny nose.
- Eye and ear irritations – which may cause itching, earaches, and general discomfort.
- Skin issues – like rashes and itching, particularly for individuals with sensitive skin.
- Flu-like symptoms – including fever, chills, and fatigue.
Individuals who have compromised immune systems, such as the elderly, children, and those with underlying health conditions, are particularly vulnerable to the effects of polluted water. For this reason, health authorities strongly recommend that all visitors to affected beaches refrain from swimming and other activities involving direct contact with the water.
Global Beach Closures Due to Bacterial Contamination:
While the Jersey Shore beaches are under advisories, the issue of bacterial contamination extends far beyond New Jersey. Around the globe, various beaches have faced closures or advisories due to similar concerns.
- California: Multiple beaches, including Coronado, Silver Strand, Imperial Beach, and Playas de Tijuana, have been affected by stormwater runoff and sewage contamination, prompting health advisories for beachgoers.
- New York: Several beaches in Suffolk and Nassau counties, including Benjamin Beach in Bay Shore and Sayville Marina Park Beach, have been closed after testing revealed bacterial levels exceeding the state’s health standards.
- Massachusetts: Over 20 beaches, such as Children’s Island in Salem, were closed due to elevated bacteria levels. The closures were part of routine efforts to protect public health, especially during the busy summer season.
- Ireland: In Dublin, beaches such as Sandycove and Seapoint Beach have had temporary “No Swimming Notices” issued due to heavy rainfall that contributed to bacterial contamination.
- United Kingdom: Several beaches in Lincolnshire and other coastal areas have been closed due to high bacteria levels from seabird waste, which is particularly problematic during dry weather when waste accumulates in the sand and water.
These closures highlight a broader trend of bacterial contamination in beaches worldwide, with local authorities taking necessary precautions to safeguard public health. It’s clear that this is a global concern, and it is essential for beachgoers to stay informed and adhere to local advisories wherever they are.
Stay Informed:
For anyone planning a trip to the beach this summer, staying informed is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Beachgoers should check local government websites and official water quality monitoring sources for updates on advisories and closures. Some areas offer real-time alerts or provide water quality data through mobile apps and social media.
By being aware of local water quality conditions and following health guidelines, you can help prevent the spread of waterborne diseases and make your beach outings safer for everyone.
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via >EPR
