Ahead of what is expected to be a sunny and hot weekend, two area beaches have been deemed unsafe for swimming.
Southwestern Public Health said on Thursday weekly water testing has found high levels of E.coli. bacteria at Port Stanley's little beach and Port Burwell Provincial Park. Signs have been posted advising people not to swim in the water.
E.coli bacteria is an indicator there is human and/or animal fecal contamination present, the health unit said. Swimming in the bacteria-filled water could cause gastrointestinal illnesses and eye, ear, nose, and/or throat infections.
The beach advisories will remain in place until the next routine water sample is taken next Monday.
All other public beaches in Elgin County, including Port Stanley's Main and Erie Rest beaches, Port Burwell East Beach, Port Bruce, Port Glasgow, and Springwater Conservation Area did not show harmful levels of bacteria and are safe for swimming.
"Weather conditions can adversely affect water quality. If the water is cloudy from rough water or heavy rains, it may have high levels of bacteria for up to two days," the health unit said. "The public is advised to consider recent weather conditions when deciding on whether or not to go swimming."
Beach water status updates are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling 211, the province's free information service.
