Bacteria Warning Issued for Los Angeles Beaches During California Heat Wave

13 March 2026

Bacteria warnings have been issues as California will see temperatures 15 to 25 degrees above normal. Getty Images

Beachgoers hoping to cool off along the Southern California coast have been met with an unexpected warning as a powerful heat wave moves across the region. Health officials in Los Angeles County have issued an advisory urging people to avoid entering the ocean at several popular beaches after testing revealed elevated levels of bacteria in the water. The warning comes at a time when unusually warm temperatures are drawing large crowds to the coastline.

According to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, recent water samples from multiple beaches showed bacteria levels that exceeded California’s safety standards. As a result, officials advised the public to avoid swimming, surfing or playing in the ocean in affected areas until water quality improves. Elevated bacteria levels in ocean water can increase the risk of illness for people who come into contact with it.

The advisory affects several well known coastal spots stretching from Malibu to Marina del Rey. Among the areas listed in the warning are Malibu Lagoon at Surfrider Beach, Leo Carrillo State Beach, Will Rogers State Beach, Topanga County Beach and Escondido State Beach. Parts of Santa Monica Beach near the pier are also included in the advisory, as well as Mother’s Beach in Marina del Rey, where the warning covers the entire swimming area.

Officials explained that the elevated bacteria levels were detected near locations where storm drains, creeks and runoff outlets empty into the ocean. These areas can collect contaminants carried from streets, hillsides and urban runoff, especially after changes in weather conditions. When these contaminants enter coastal waters, they can cause bacteria levels to spike above safe thresholds for swimming.

The warning coincides with a heat advisory issued by the National Weather Service for parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties. Temperatures along the coast were expected to climb into the mid eighties, a warm spell for early spring that encouraged residents and tourists to head toward the ocean in search of relief from the heat.

Health officials say that the bacteria detected in the water can lead to illness in people who come into contact with contaminated ocean water. Symptoms may include stomach problems, skin infections and respiratory issues. The risks are especially concerning for children, elderly individuals and people with weakened immune systems.

To protect public health, authorities recommend avoiding direct contact with ocean water in areas where warning signs have been posted. Even walking or playing in shallow surf near runoff zones can expose people to contaminated water. Officials also advise beach visitors to stay away from storm drains, creeks and other outlets where bacteria levels are often highest.

Los Angeles County monitors ocean water quality year round through routine sampling at beaches across the region. When bacteria levels exceed state health standards, advisories are issued and warning signs are placed near the affected areas. These alerts remain in effect until follow up testing shows that the water has returned to safe conditions.

For now, the advisory does not mean that beaches themselves are closed. Visitors can still enjoy the sand, sun and coastal scenery. The warning specifically targets ocean water activities such as swimming or surfing in the areas where contamination has been detected.

As temperatures continue to rise during the heat wave, officials are encouraging beachgoers to stay informed about water conditions before entering the ocean. Updates on beach advisories are posted through the county’s public health website and hotline, allowing residents and visitors to check the latest information before heading into the water.

The situation serves as a reminder that even during beautiful beach weather, environmental conditions can quickly change. By paying attention to health advisories and posted warnings, visitors can still enjoy the coast while avoiding unnecessary risks during this unusually warm stretch of California weather.