Coastal regions in Spain and California issue health warnings over bacteria levels

Authorities in Spain and the United States are addressing public health concerns following reports of elevated bacteria levels at various coastal locations.

In Malaga, Spain, the regional government has established a monitoring committee to oversee the quality of bathing waters. This follows a summer of unprecedented beach closures caused by contamination. In Malaga city, six beaches were closed in August after heavy storms caused the sewerage system to overflow, releasing faecal bacteria into the water. Currently, only 55 per cent of the system separates stormwater from sewage, though officials aim to increase this to 70 per cent through the installation of retention tanks.

In California, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health issued warnings for several beaches in Malibu and Santa Monica, including Malibu Lagoon, Topanga Canyon Beach, and the Santa Monica Pier. Recent samples indicated bacteria levels exceeding state health standards, prompting officials to advise against swimming, surfing, or playing in the ocean water to avoid the risk of illness.