Some San Diego Beaches Closed After Storms

Elevated bacteria levels prompt beach closures across the region.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Several beaches around San Diego County have been closed due to high bacteria levels in the water following recent heavy rains. County health officials have issued a general rain advisory that will remain in effect until Monday, February 23 at 2 p.m.

Why it matters

Beach closures due to water contamination are common in San Diego after major storms, as heavy rainfall can wash pollutants and bacteria from streets and storm drains into the ocean. This poses a public health risk, especially for those planning to swim or surf.

The details

According to the county's website, beach closures are currently in effect from Imperial Beach, through the Silver Strand, and up into Coronado. The yellow beach hazard signs warning people to stay out of the water were posted around the affected beaches, typically done around 72 hours after heavy rain. While some beachgoers opted to just view the ocean, surfers were still spotted in the water despite the warnings.

  • The beach closures went into effect on Saturday, February 21, 2026.
  • The General Rain Advisory is in effect across San Diego County until Monday, February 23 at 2 p.m.

The players

San Diego County

The local government entity that issued the beach closures and rain advisory due to elevated bacteria levels in the water following recent storms.

Katie Peterson

A beachgoer who visited Coronado Beach on Saturday but opted not to go in the water due to the posted warnings.

Lizzie Peterson

Katie Peterson's sister, who was confused by the beach closures and not being able to go in the water.

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What they’re saying

“We were just going to go visit the beach, we just wanted to look at it but it was just a little bit too cold to actually go in the water.”

— Katie Peterson (nbcsandiego.com)

“I was just a little confused because I was like oh wow it's a beach, but we can't really go in the water.”

— Lizzie Peterson (nbcsandiego.com)

What’s next

The General Rain Advisory will remain in effect until Monday, February 23 at 2 p.m., at which point county officials will re-evaluate the water quality and determine if the beach closures can be lifted.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing challenge of maintaining safe water quality at San Diego's beaches, especially after major storms that can wash pollutants into the ocean. It serves as a reminder for beachgoers to heed posted warnings and avoid swimming or surfing when bacteria levels are elevated to protect public health.