Caution Urged at Local Beaches After Heavy Rainfall

In recent days, residents of Suffolk County have witnessed an unprecedented deluge. With rainfall pouring down in torrents, the aftermath has become a cause for concern, particularly for those keen on enjoying the county's pristine beaches. The Suffolk County Department of Health Services (SCDHS) has taken this matter gravely. Recognizing the situation's urgency, they've issued a revised advisory that touches on the heightened bacteria levels in several local beaches. Alarmingly, these levels now cross the thresholds of safety standards prescribed by the State of New York.

The advisory primarily targets beaches most vulnerable to the aftermath of excessive stormwater runoff. These are beaches that lie near watersheds and tributaries. What makes these areas particularly susceptible is their geographical configuration. Beaches with enclosed embayments, which are essentially coastal recesses, combined with limited tidal flushing, face considerable challenges. The nature of these beach areas makes it difficult to swiftly replace water, especially after heavy rainfall, leading to stagnation and, unfortunately, contamination.

The SCDHS's warning to the public is straightforward but firm. They strongly advocate that beachgoers refrain from diving into the waters or participating in water-centric activities at these beach locales. The rationale behind this caution is scientific. It takes at least two tidal cycles, roughly 24 hours, for the waters to refresh after a rainfall event. However, the dynamics of nature are not always predictable. If continuous monitoring, a process that the SCDHS is religiously following, shows that the elevated bacteria levels persist, then the advisory might need an extension.

Amidst this concerning situation, there is a silver lining. The comprehensive and diligent research by Suffolk County's Public & Environmental Health Lab has borne fruit. Two earlier closed beaches – Tanner Park Beach in Copiague and Valley Grove Beach in Eatons Neck – have received the green signal to open.

Protecting public health is paramount, and SCDHS's dedication is evident in its comprehensive water quality monitoring program, which is actively operational from May to September annually. Every collected sample undergoes a thorough analysis by the Department's accredited Public and Environmental Health Laboratory (PEHL). Their goal is clear: ensure that every drop of water at Suffolk County's beaches is safe for its residents.

Dr. Gregson Pigott, the Suffolk County Commissioner of Health, emphasized that swimming in contaminated waters is not just about murky waters but potential health risks. The dangers are real and present, from gastrointestinal ailments to infections that can affect the eyes, ears, nose, and throat. Thus, as Suffolk County grapples with these challenges, its residents must stay informed and cautious and prioritize health and safety.

For those seeking real-time updates, a variety of resources are available. The Bathing Beach HOTLINE at 631-852-5822 is always active. The Department's Office of Ecology, reachable at 631-852-5760 during regular business hours, can provide more in-depth details. Moreover, the county's official website, www. suffolkcountyny.gov/health, is a repository of information.