Long Beach Open Coastal Swimming Areas West of Pier Temporarily Closed Due to Sewage Spill

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PRESS RELEASE

Long Beach, CA - Long Beach Acting City Health Officer, Dr. Cliff Okada has ordered the temporary closure of coastal swimming areas West of the Pier in Long Beach due to sewage spills. State law requires temporary closure and posting at beaches in these situations, out of an abundance of caution, until the water quality meets State requirements.

According to a report from the California Office of Emergency Services (CalOES), approximately 13,000 gallons of sewage were discharged into the Los Angeles River on January 10, 2026. The discharge originated in another city, outside of Long Beach, and flowed toward ocean waters. The spill was associated with a grease-related blockage in a sewer line upstream of the river.

The City of Long Beach Health Department's Recreational Water Quality Environmental Health Specialists are monitoring water quality in our coastal beaches. Water monitoring will continue until sampling results comply with State water quality standards.

Long Beach has over six miles of public beach. To protect public health and safety, weekly water samples are collected and tested routinely to monitor bacterial levels. For their safety, community members are encouraged to pay close attention to warning signs posted at the beach and to avoid water contact while closures are in effect.

For the latest status on Long Beach recreational beach water quality, the public may call the Water Hotline at 562.570.4199 or visit longbeach.gov/beachwaterquality.

Media inquiries can be directed to the Department of Health and Human Services Public Affairs Office, [email protected].

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