Beach Water Still Unsafe After California Rain, Researchers Say
By Fernando Hurtado
Video by Priscilla Casper
Video by Priscilla Casper
Wednesday, March 5, 2014 | 10:17 a.m. PST
The "three-day rule," which states that beachgoers should wait three days after a storm before going into the water, may not be enough to prevent waterborne illnesses.
A new study by the UCLA Institute of the Environment and Sustainability shows that even after three days, beach water might not be safe.
Researchers found that closed beaches near storm drains and creek outlets take longer to dilute bacteria and debris.
The study's authors called on L.A. and state officials to increase their advisory warning to at least five days.
Some enclosed beaches near harbors aren't safe until at least 10 days after a storm, according to the study.
