Beware: Fecal Contamination Threatens Swimmers at Popular US Beaches

Thousands of people are gearing up for a beach trip this Labor Day weekend. But a dip in the water may not be safe. Many U.S. beaches are warning against swimming due to high levels of fecal bacteria.

From Florida to Maine, advisories are out for beaches cautioning visitors about water quality. Swimming in these waters can lead to stomach issues, rashes, and nausea. Some popular beach spots, like Keyes Memorial Beach in Cape Cod and portions of the shoreline near San Diego, have even closed due to safety concerns. Even in Hawaii, Kahaluu Beach Park is facing warnings about high contamination levels.

A report from Environment America found a troubling trend. In 2024, nearly two-thirds of beaches tested across the country had unsafe levels of fecal contamination at least once. The Gulf Coast faced the highest rates, with 84% of its beaches exceeding safety standards. On the East Coast, 54% of tested beaches had similar issues.

The reasons behind this problem are complex. Many areas deal with outdated sewer and water systems, which allow sewage to flow into swimming spots. John Rumpler, from Environment America, highlights the need for upgrades. “These beaches are a treasure for families. We need to invest in our water systems to keep them safe,” he said.

Severe weather is making things worse, too. Heavy rain can overwhelm sewage systems, leading to contamination. Urban development also contributes by disrupting natural areas that help absorb rainwater.

Despite the warnings, some beachgoers are still willing to take the plunge. At Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, Yaromyr Oryshkevych, a retired dentist, shrugged off concerns about contamination. He believes the ocean’s currents will manage any issues. Another visitor, Dana West, recalled a bad experience on a recent snorkeling trip, where several people got sick. But he feels safe now, trusting local authorities to keep swimmers informed.

Yet, the reality is that some nearby beaches, including Rehoboth Bay, are currently under advisories. Not all warnings are prominently posted, which poses risks for swimmers who may not be aware.

According to Environment America’s findings, swimmers face a one in 32 chance of illness when fecal bacteria levels exceed safety limits set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The situation is so pressing that, in North Carolina, multiple beaches were recently under advisories for high levels of bacteria due to storms and heavy rainfall.

When considering a beach visit, it’s crucial to stay informed about local conditions. As our climate changes, and weather patterns become more unpredictable, we must adapt to protect our health and our beaches.

For more information on beach safety and water quality guidelines, visit the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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Pollution, Labor, Climate and environment, Coastlines and beaches, U.S. news, General news, Article, 125120062