Multiple beaches along the US East Coast have issued ‘do not swim’ warnings due to high levels of fecal bacteria in the water.
Health advisories have been issued across New York and New Jersey just as millions of Americans are gearing up for a Fourth of July beach trip.
The bacteria detected, known as Enterococcus, is commonly found in the intestines and feces of humans and animals and can signal the presence of more dangerous pathogens in the water.
Officials are warning that contaminated water could cause stomach illnesses and infections, particularly in children, older adults and those with weakened immune systems.
In New York City, five beaches across Brooklyn, Queens and the Bronx are currently under advisory after recent testing found bacteria levels above the city’s safety threshold.
Miles away in New Jersey, elevated bacteria levels were detected at Windward Beach in Brick Township, Cedar Bridge Manor Park in Brick Township, Summit Avenue Beach in Island Heights and Cedar Point in South Toms River.
The advisories come as a blistering heat wave grips the Northeast, with warmer temperatures and direct sunlight capable of accelerating bacterial growth in beach water and sand.
Authorities are urging beachgoers to check local advisories before heading to the shore and to avoid entering the water at any beach where warnings remain in place.
Health advisories have been issued across New York and New Jersey just as millions of Americans are gearing up for a Fourth of July beach trip (stock)
Experts said pet and wildlife waste, leaking septic systems, sewer problems and stormwater runoff can all contribute to elevated bacteria levels.
Sea Gate 42nd, a private beach at the western end of Coney Island in Brooklyn, recorded 233 bacteria per 100 milliliters of water, more than double the city’s acceptable limit of 104.
In Queens, the Whitestone Boosters Civic Association Beach measured 136 this week after reaching a staggering 873 last week, more than eight times the safe limit.
Douglaston Manor Beach in Queens also raised concerns after officials detected 1,362 bacteria per 100 milliliters of water last week, roughly 13 times above the city’s standard, although levels have since fallen significantly.
Two private beaches in the Bronx are also under advisory. The Trinity Danish Young People’s Society beach saw bacteria levels rise to more than double the acceptable limit last week, while the neighboring White Cross Fishing Club measured 127 this week.
The New York City Department of Health is advising people not to swim or wade at the affected beaches, warning that exposure to contaminated water can lead to gastrointestinal illnesses, including diarrhea, vomiting, stomach cramps and pain.
The water can also cause infections if it comes into contact with open cuts or wounds.
Officials cautioned that conditions could have worsened since the latest testing was carried out several days ago, particularly as the region experiences sweltering temperatures. Beaches may also be closed if authorities receive reports of repeated illnesses or discover evidence of sewage, wastewater or other hazardous contaminants in the water.
Across the Hudson River, New Jersey officials have also issued warnings after four swimming areas exceeded the state’s safety standards for fecal bacteria.
The bacteria detected, known as Enterococcus, is commonly found in the intestines and feces of humans and animals and can signal the presence of more dangerous pathogens in the water (stock)
Windward Beach in Brick measured 150 colony-forming units of Enterococcus, while Cedar Point in South Toms River recorded the same level.
Summit Avenue Beach in Island Heights came in at 110 colony-forming units.
The most alarming results came from Cedar Bridge Manor Park in Brick, where bacteria levels soared to 900 colony-forming units, nearly nine times higher than New Jersey’s safe swimming standard.
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection said contamination can stem from a variety of sources, including animal waste, leaking sewer and septic systems and stormwater drains that wash pollutants into rivers and bays.
Several advisories issued earlier this week have since been lifted after bacteria levels dropped to safe levels, including at Miller Beach in Atlantic Highlands, East Beach in Pine Beach and Anglesea Avenue Beach in Ocean Gate.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends avoiding putting your head underwater or swallowing water at beaches under advisory.
Even people who choose to wade should avoid exposing open wounds to the water and wash their hands after spending time in the sand.
