Heavy rainfall has led to harmful bacterial outbreaks, resulting in multiple beach closures across the U.S. just as many Americans plan their Fourth of July beach trips.
In Nantucket, Massachusetts, two beaches were closed—one due to “bacterial exceedance” and the other because of a “harmful cyanobacterial bloom.” Additionally, 40 more beaches across the state were shut down, according to the state’s Department of Health.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) explains that cyanobacteria, or blue-green algae, are responsible for most harmful algal blooms in freshwater. While these bacteria don’t directly infect humans, they can be dangerous by producing toxins or growing excessively dense.
Not all beach closures were due to algae. In Michigan, E. coli contamination prompted closures, as reported by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. The CDC notes that E. coli, which inhabit the gastrointestinal tracts of humans and animals, can be present in feces and can be washed into water bodies by storm runoff. A local report by WGHN attributed the presence of E. coli in the water to recent storms.
The CDC further explains that heavy rain can pick up contaminants, including human and animal waste, and carry them into swimming areas, making the water cloudier and potentially unsafe.
New York’s Suffolk County issued multiple advisories for local beaches due to rainfall-related contamination. Similarly, in San Diego County, three beaches were closed after bacteria levels exceeded health standards.
Before swimming, the CDC recommends checking online for current information about the swim area, including whether it is monitored, under advisory, or closed for health or safety reasons. This is particularly important after heavy rain.
The Quran - Chapter Al-Hadid : 15
So Today no ransom will be accepted from you ˹hypocrites˺, nor from the disbelievers. Your home is the Fire—it is the ˹only˺ fitting place for you. What an evil destination!”
