Angelenos looking to hit the beach over the holiday weekend might need to adjust their plans. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has issued an Ocean Water Quality Rain Advisory for all county beaches, cautioning residents and visitors to avoid contact with ocean water—particularly near storm drains, creeks, and rivers—through Monday, December 29, 2025, at 8:00am. According to the advisory, these areas are at risk of higher bacterium levels due to the recent rainfalls washing contaminants from streets and mountain areas into the ocean and bay waters.
The public health notice, prominently set to remain in place for 72 hours post-rainfall, reflects the department’s concern over the timeliness with which pollution can turn a festive beach outing into a health risk. Following the rain, the water may contain heightened levels of bacteria, chemicals, and debris according to a bulletin released by the County. It’s not just the ocean; beachgoers should be wary of any runoff that ponds on the sand too.
While the advisory is slated to conclude next Monday, conditions are subject to change with additional rainfall. Recreational water users are advised to check the latest updates before making any beach plans. For those who need up-to-date beach conditions, the County keeps a 24-hour hotline at 1-800-525-5662. More detailed information, including a map of the affected locations, is available on the Public Health Department’s website…