Swim Cautiously: Advisories Posted in Dare County Due to High Bacteria Levels

Swim Cautiously: Advisories Posted in Dare County Due to High Bacteria Levels

Today in **Dare County**, there’s important news for beachgoers. The **North Carolina recreational water quality officials** have issued swimming advisories for three locations after finding bacteria levels that exceed both state and **Environmental Protection Agency** standards. These advisories are a precautionary measure, and officials are urging the public to stay informed when it comes to swimming and water activities in these areas.

Why the Advisory?

So, what’s behind this advisory? It appears that recent heavy rainfall has led to **stormwater runoff**, which is believed to have contributed to the increased bacteria counts in the water. Resulting water samples taken on **July 1 and July 2** showed levels of **enterococci**, a group of bacteria found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals, surpassing the recommended monthly average of **35 enterococci per 100 milliliters** of water. This sample is based on five tests taken over the past 30 days.

While enterococci itself isn’t known to cause illness, it can indicate the presence of other organisms that might. By swimming or playing in these waters, there’s a higher chance that individuals could experience gastrointestinal issues or skin infections.

What to Know About the Areas Affected

The warning signs have been posted near the affected areas, advising visitors that **“Swimming in this area is not recommended. Bacteria testing indicates levels of contamination that may be hazardous to your health.”** It’s important to note that these advisories are not closures of the beaches themselves, nor do they affect the entire areas of **Nags Head** or **Kill Devil Hills**. Instead, they are specific to **waters within 200 feet** of the posted signs, allowing many beachgoers to still enjoy their day safely.

Ongoing Monitoring and Updates

The good news is that state officials are actively monitoring the situation. They plan to continue testing the water quality and will remove the advisory signs once the bacteria levels drop back below the safety standards. This effort ensures that the beaches remain safe for all visitors throughout the season.

During the peak season from **April to October**, officials sample an impressive **221 locations** along the coast, mostly on a weekly basis. When fewer people are out and about, testing continues but on a reduced schedule through the rest of the year.

Stay Informed and Safe

If you’re heading to the beach anytime soon, it’s wise to keep an eye on the water quality and the advisories in place. For anyone wanting to check on the latest water conditions, the N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program provides valuable updates. You can visit their website or follow their social media channels for the latest information.

In the spirit of community and safety, make sure to share this information with friends and family. Enjoy the beauty of Dare County’s beaches but do so with caution and respect for the water quality advisories in place. Let’s keep it safe and fun for everyone!