LA County Issues Rain Advisory for All Beaches Through Saturday Morning

Runoff from storm drains, creeks and rivers can carry bacteria, chemicals, debris, trash and other hazards into coastal waters.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health issued a rain advisory urging people to avoid contact with ocean and bay waters at all county beaches until at least 8 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 21 due to elevated bacteria levels from recent rainfall. The advisory warns that runoff from storm drains, creeks and rivers can carry bacteria, chemicals, debris, trash and other hazards from streets and mountainous areas into coastal waters, putting people who enter the water near discharging outlets or areas with ponded runoff on the sand at risk of illness.

Why it matters

Rain advisories are common in the Los Angeles area after heavy rainfall, as the runoff can introduce a variety of contaminants into the ocean that pose health risks to beachgoers. This advisory aims to protect public health and safety by warning residents to avoid entering the water until bacteria levels have subsided.

The details

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health issued the rain advisory on Tuesday, urging people to avoid contact with ocean and bay waters at all county beaches until at least 8 a.m. on Saturday, February 21. The advisory warns that runoff from storm drains, creeks and rivers can carry bacteria, chemicals, debris, trash and other hazards from streets and mountainous areas into coastal waters, putting people who enter the water near discharging outlets or areas with ponded runoff on the sand at risk of illness.

  • The rain advisory was issued on Tuesday, February 18, 2026.
  • The advisory is in effect until at least 8 a.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2026.

The players

Los Angeles County Department of Public Health

The government agency responsible for protecting public health and safety in Los Angeles County, including issuing advisories related to water quality and other environmental health concerns.

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The takeaway

This rain advisory highlights the ongoing need to monitor water quality and protect beachgoers from potential health risks associated with storm runoff in the Los Angeles area. It serves as a reminder for residents to be cautious about entering the ocean after heavy rainfall until authorities confirm the water is safe for recreational use.