Sunset Beach closed for swimming due to high E. coli levels

Aug 10 2020, 8:24 pm

Vancouver Coastal Health is warning swimmers not to go in the water at Sunset Beach because of high E. coli levels. 

Recent testing at the beach in Vancouver’s West End showed the water had too much E. coli bacteria in it for safe swimming, and the Park Board put up signs over the weekend saying swimming and wading are not allowed.

On August 8 there were 1,375 E. coli per 100 millilitres of water, more than three times the recommended limit, according to VCH. 

The health authority says high levels of E. coli in the water increase the risk of swimmers developing gastrointestinal illnesses or getting skin and eye irritation. 

Some events that increase E. Coli counts in Vancouver’s swimming areas include heavy rainfall and stormwater runoff that can transport animal waste, sewer overflow, and contamination from vehicles into the water. Leaking septic tanks and discharge from boats also harms water quality, according to VCH. 

Second Beach, Third Beach, and English Bay are all still clean enough to swim in, according to VCH. 

Megan DevlinMegan Devlin

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