Health officials issued swimming advisories for Virginia Beach and Hampton beaches on Wednesday after water samples showed elevated levels of harmful bacteria.
The affected beaches are south and middle Buckroe Beach and Salt Ponds in Hampton, as well as the stretches of beach from Ocean View Avenue to Wake Forest Street and from 54th Street to 83rd Street in Virginia Beach, according to the Virginia Department of Health.
Officials found that the amount of enterococci bacteria exceeded state water quality standards and created a risk that members of the public were at greater risk of developing gastrointestinal illnesses from swimming. Enterococci is an indicator of the presence of fecal matter in the water.
Signs have been put in place at the affected beaches to warn the public. They will be removed when the bacteria decreases to safe levels.
Experts advise that the public avoid recreational waters for about three days after heavy rain due to the risk of contamination.