Several beaches across San Diego County were closed this weekend after a series of storms significantly increased bacteria levels in coastal waters, health officials said. The measure follows several days of heavy rainfall that triggered contaminated runoff flowing into the ocean.

 

According to NBC 7 San Diego, the closures extend from Imperial Beach through the Silver Strand area and up to Coronado. Authorities posted yellow warning signs along the coastline to alert swimmers and surfers about the risks of entering the water.

 

Health officials explained that after significant rainfall, precautionary advisories are typically issued for at least 72 hours, as stormwater runoff can carry bacteria, debris, and other pollutants into the surf.

 

Despite the warnings — and temperatures hovering in the low 60s Fahrenheit (around 15°C) — large crowds gathered Saturday along Coronado’s picturesque shoreline as gray skies gave way to sunshine.

 

Some surfers ignored the caution tape and paddled into the water, taking advantage of calmer conditions following days of stormy weather. Other beachgoers, however, chose to remain on the sand amid uncertainty.

 

County officials stressed the importance of heeding advisories, warning that swimming in contaminated water can lead to illness.

 

A general rain advisory remains in effect throughout San Diego County through Monday afternoon as runoff continues to impact water quality. While the sand may once again look postcard-perfect, officials caution that, for now, the ocean is not safe for recreational activities.