Warning: Health Department Declares 2 Staten Island Beaches Unsafe for Swimming – What You Need to Know!

Two Staten Island beaches, Midland Beach and South Beach, are currently under water quality advisories. This means swimming is not safe right now. The City’s Health Department issues these warnings due to heavy rain, high bacteria levels, or pollution from various sources, including waste and chemicals.

Recent testing has shown concerning levels of enterococci bacteria at both beaches. The limit is 104 bacteria per 100 milliliters for saltwater. Tests from May 19 indicated that South Beach had an average of 51 MPN (Most Probable Number) bacteria over 30 days, exceeding the recommended safe average of 35 MPN. A single-day test that same day showed even higher levels at 148 MPN.

Midland Beach’s results were worse. Its 30-day average was a staggering 191 MPN, with a single-day test reaching an alarming 1,256 MPN. These numbers are well above what is considered safe.

Water quality can shift quickly. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), heavy rainfall can drastically change the pollution levels in the water. When rain falls, it can wash contaminants into the ocean, increasing risks to swimmers.

Historically, beach advisories like these aren’t new. In fact, in 2021, similar advisories were issued during the summer following heavy rainfalls. Awareness of beach safety continues to grow, but concerns about pollution persist.

Social media trends show many locals expressing frustration with these ongoing advisories. Tweets and posts indicate a longing for clean beaches, along with discussions about climate change’s impact on water quality.

It’s crucial to stay informed about water safety, especially during summer months. For the latest updates on water quality, check the City’s Health Department website.

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