Cropped photo taken by Albert C Elliott, Jan. 5, 2018 (See below for full photo)
General Rain Advisory In Effect
The County’s Department of Environmental Health has issued a General Rain Advisory for the coastal waters of San Diego County – which includes Ocean Beach – due to contamination by urban runoff following the most rains.
This is particularly important for Ocean Beach, as the San Diego River empties at Dog Beach – as it’s a significant outlet for urban runoff.
Swimmers, surfers, and other ocean users are warned that levels of bacteria can rise significantly in ocean waters, especially near storm drains, creeks, rivers, and lagoon outlets that discharge urban runoff.
Activities such as swimming, surfing and diving should be avoided for 72 hours following rain.
The most recent significant rain occurred on January 6, 2018. Which by our count, means people and dogs should avoid these waters at least until Wednesday, January 9.
From the County’s website (always check it before going in around storms):
The advisory for urban runoff contamination applies to beaches from San Onofre State Beach south to Border Field, including Mission Bay and San Diego Bay. While many coastal outlets are posted with permanent metal warning signs, additional temporary signs are not posted for General Advisories.
When are advisories issued?
General (rain) advisories are issued when rainfall equal to or greater than 0.20 inch is received in coastal or valley areas of San Diego County. This can lead to elevated bacterial levels in ocean and bay water, especially those located adjacent to storm drains, creeks, rivers, and lagoon outlets. The Department of Environmental Health (DEH) advises beach users to avoid contact with ocean and bay water for a period of 72 hours after rainfall ends. Signage is not posted for general advisories.
Photo by Albert C Elliott – Jan. 5, 2019
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