NEW YORK (1010 WINS/WCBS 880) — The Suffolk County Department of Health Services on Thursday issued an advisory against bathing at 63 Long Island beaches over bacteria levels due to rainfall.
The advisory is based on the potential bacteria levels that are heavily influenced by stormwater runoff at these beaches that exceed New York State standards.
Health officials recommend that bathing and other water contact be suspended in affected areas until the waters have been flushed by two successive tidal cycles, at least a 24-hour period, after the rain has ended.
The advisory will be lifted at 5 a.m. Friday, June 28, unless sampling reveals elevated levels of bacteria persisting beyond the 24-hour period.
Health officials recommend suspending bathing and contact with water in affected areas until the waters have been flushed by two successive tidal cycles in at least a 24-hour period after the rain has ended.
Beaches closed for swimming include Amityville Beach in Amityville, Tanner Park in Copiague, Venetian Shores Beach in West Babylon and Tides Beach in Sound Beach.
The full list of beach closings can be found here.
Anyone interested in the latest information on affected beaches may call the Bathing Beach HOTLINE at 631-852-5822 or visit suffolkcountyny.gov/health and search "Beach Monitoring Program."
