PRESS RELEASE

Long Beach, CA – Long Beach City Health Officer Dr. Anissa Davis has issued a rain advisory for recreational beaches and bays in the City of Long Beach following the rain experienced this morning. The storm resulting from Tropical Storm (formerly Hurricane) Hilary is expected to bring several inches of rain to Long Beach.

After any significant rainfall, unhealthy conditions may result from increased runoff from storm drain outlets and rivers, which eventually reach the City’s beaches. Recreational swimming areas should be avoided for three days following the end of a rainstorm. This advisory will be extended if the rain continues.

In preparation for the significant weather system resulting from Tropical Storm Hilary, the City of Long Beach has added emergency shelter beds for people experiencing homelessness and prepared an emergency shelter for Catalina Island residents who need support. Monday’s COVID-19 vaccine and testing schedules also have been modified. More information about the City’s emergency response efforts related to Tropical Storm Hilary are available here.

State law requires all local public health agencies with recreational swimming areas to notify the public when conditions might affect the health of swimmers. Further information may be obtained from the Health Department’s Water Quality Information Line at 562.570.4199 or online at longbeach.gov/beachwaterquality.

Media inquiries can be directed to the Jennifer Rice Epstein, Public Affairs Officer, Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services, 562.441.3590 or Jennifer.RiceEpstein@longbeach.gov.