Individuals considering a beach trip this weekend are advised to reconsider swimming due to potentially hazardous fecal levels in the water at numerous US coastlines.
As thousands of Americans gear up for Labor Day weekend beach trips, a concerning trend of fecal contamination has been reported at numerous coastal locations across the nation.
According to Erin Bryan-Millush, environmental program supervisor with the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality, this summer's heavy rain events and the aftermath of Hurricane Erin have exacerbated the problem. The storm surge and erosion caused by Hurricane Erin have resulted in extensive contamination in some coastal areas.
Nearly two-thirds of beaches tested nationwide in 2024 experienced at least one day with potentially unsafe levels of fecal contamination. Among these are Kahaluu Beach Park on the Big Island, Hawaii, and Benjamin's Beach on Long Island, Bay Shore, New York. A portion of the Imperial Beach shoreline near San Diego and Keyes Memorial Beach in Hyannis, Barnstable, Massachusetts, have also had closures.
Crystal River, Florida, to Ogunquit, Maine, are among the beaches with advisories, warning swimmers that going in the water could be risky. However, it's important to note that not all advisories are posted on public signs.
John Rumpler, clean water director and senior attorney with Environment America, emphasises the importance of beaches as a shared resource. He urges investment to prevent human waste from contaminating swimming areas, stating that beaches are an investment worth protecting.
In some areas, outdated water and sewer systems allow contamination from sewage to reach swimming areas. For instance, the town of Gloucester, Massachusetts, has faced such issues. Retired dentist Oryshkevych, however, expresses confidence in the safety of Rehoboth Beach, despite some beaches in the area, including Rehoboth Bay and Dewey Beach bayside, being under water advisories this week.
Dana West, a federal worker, recalls a case of gastrointestinal issues from a snorkeling excursion off the coast of Isla Mujeres, Mexico, highlighting the potential risks associated with contaminated waters.
Despite these concerns, it's essential to remember that many beaches remain open. Swimmers are advised to exercise caution and follow any advisories or signs posted at their designated beach. As always, enjoy your time at the beach responsibly.
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