Seasonal water quality checks are underway along South Carolina's coastline to keep beachgoers safe this summer.
The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control will be running tests to check bacteria levels in the water May 1, 2024 through October 30, 2024.
Water samples will be collected at 122 locations along the states coast and will be frequently tested for Enterococci bacteria, which can cause meningitis, urinary tract infections and other infections.
If elevated levels of the bacteria are found, DHEC will issue a public notice and beach location along with a short-term swimming advisory. Advisories don't mean the beach is closed, only the water should be avoided until bacteria levels return to normal. DHEC will also update information on its Beach Monitoring website to keep the public informed due to the dangers of high levels of bacteria negatively affecting some people’s health.