PRESS RELEASE

City Health Officer, Dr. Anissa Davis, has lifted the closure order on all beaches, including coastal beaches and bays, which includes lagoons, after consecutive lab results demonstrated the water to be within State water quality standards.  

All open coastal beaches and all bay areas/lagoons were closed for recreational water contact starting Thursday, Feb 1. following a series of sanitary sewer overflows that occurred between Feb. 1 and Feb. 6 during a period of heavy rainfall. The sewage spills occurred in the City of Long Beach, Rancho Dominguez, City of Commerce, City of Whittier, City of La Mirada, and City of El Monte.   

The sanitary sewer overflows were estimated to be over 8 million gallons, requiring the closure of all bay areas/lagoons and open coastal beaches located within the City of Long Beach. Out of an abundance of caution and in accordance with State Law requirements, the temporary closure and beach postings were implemented until water quality met State standards. The City also issued two notices on Feb. 2 and Feb. 5 to inform the public about the closures.  

For the latest status on Long Beach recreational beach water quality, the public can call the Water Hotline at 562.570.4199 or visit https://longbeach.gov/health/inspections-and-reporting/inspections/recreational-water-samples/.