King County Public Health officials warn to stay out of the water at several area beaches

King County Public Health has issued a warning for several area beaches, advising the public to stay out of the water due to high bacteria levels. Affected locations include Houghton, Madison Park, Madrona, Matthews, and Mount Baker Beaches, alongside the discovery of toxic algae at Green Lake’s West Beach. Health risks associated with exposure include gastrointestinal illnesses and infections in the eyes and ears, as noted by Jun Naotsuka, the beach safety and sewage monitoring lead. The bacteria contaminating the water likely comes from feces from humans, dogs, and wildlife. Public health officials will conduct weekly water tests to monitor the situation and provide updates on safety by next Wednesday.

This information is crucial as the Fourth of July holiday weekend approaches, a time when beach visits typically increase. Residents can stay informed by checking local health resources for real-time updates on water safety. Adhering to warning signs is essential to prevent health issues during this peak beach season.