SAN DIEGO, Calif. (KGTV) -- Health officials in San Diego are warning people to avoid water contact at all coastal beaches and bays amid rain sweeping through Southern California.
The San Diego County Department of Environmental Health issued the general rain advisory Thursday afternoon.
According to the department, the urban runoff caused by the rain can cause bacteria levels to spike significantly in ocean and bay water, especially near storm drains, creeks, rivers and lagoon outlets.
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The runoff could contain bacteria from animal waste, soil and decomposing vegetation.
The department says water contact such as swimming, surfing and diving should be avoided during rain and for 72 hours after the rain stops.
A beach closure will also remain in place for the shoreline of Tijuana Slough National Wildlife Refuge and Border Field State Park due to sewage-contaminated flows from the Tijuana River.
The water contact closure includes all beaches from the south end of Seacoast Drive to the international border.
