Beach-goers warned of bacteria levels due to runoff

SAN DIEGO - Beach-goers were warned today that bacteria levels in ocean and bay waters can rise significantly following storms like the ones that pounded San Diego County this week.

The San Diego County Department of Environmental Health issued a general advisory this morning, especially for areas near storm drains, creeks, rivers and lagoon outlets that discharge urban runoff.

''While many coastal storm drains within San Diego County are permanently posted with white metal warning signs, additional temporary warning signs are not posted for general advisories,'' the department warned.

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