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More beaches across the county, North and South shores, are temporarily closed to bathing due to increased levels of bacteria, according to the county.
West Oaks Recreation Club Beach is the most recent beach to be closed for bathing in Islip Town. Swimming is also now off-limits at Sound Beach Property Owners Association West Beach and Shirley Beach in Brookhaven Town.
Meanwhile, Tanner Park Beach in Copiague, Corey Beach in Blue Point, Benjamin Beach in Bay Shore, Bayport Beach, Sayville Marina Park Beach and Lake Ronkonkoma all remain closed.
Increased bacteria in the local waterways can be caused by several factors: stormwater runoff, resident waterfowl populations, failing or poorly operating septic systems, sewage spills, boats and marinas, floatable debris, and from bathers themselves, says county officials.
“According to Suffolk County Commissioner of Health Dr. James Tomarken, bathing in bacteria-contaminated water can result in gastrointestinal illness, as well as infections of the eyes, ears, nose, and throat,” reads an announcement issued Monday.
All beaches will remain closed until bacteria levels decrease.
For the latest information on affected beaches, call the Bathing Beach HOTLINE at 852-5822 or contact the Department’s Office of Ecology at 852-5760 during normal business hours. Or click here.
Top: Photo courtesy of Suffolk County Department of Health Updates’ Facebook.
