Dozens of beaches and lakes across several U.S. states have been closed or placed under advisories due to the presence of fecal bacteria. Health authorities in New York, Massachusetts, Michigan, California, Oregon, and other states have detected high levels of E. coli and enterococci, indicating fecal contamination that can cause gastrointestinal issues, respiratory symptoms, and skin infections.
In Long Island, several beaches have been closed, while in Massachusetts, 18 swimming spots have been shut down. Similar warnings have been issued in Michigan and California, including beaches in Santa Monica and San Diego. In some lakes, harmful cyanobacterial blooms—potentially toxic—have also been detected.
The main causes include sewage overflows, heavy rainfall, litter, animal waste, and rising temperatures. Authorities urge the public to avoid entering the water when closures or warnings are in place and to check local updates before swimming.
Massimo Serresi
