Long Beach health officials today ordered the closure of coastal swimming areas west of Belmont Pier after 18,000 gallons of sewage was discharged into the Los Angeles River on Wednesday.

City Health Officer Dr. Anissa Davis ordered the closure after receiving a report from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health and Los Angeles County Sanitation District regarding the spillage, the city announced in a statement. State law requires temporary closure and posting at beaches in these situations until the water quality meets state requirements, according to the city.  

Officials say the spill originated in Paramount and was the result of the heavy rainfall causing a sewer to overflow.

It is not clear when the affected beaches will reopen for swimming and other water activities, but authorities said they would remain closed until testing of water samples shows bacteria levels are within state standards. Residents are encouraged to pay attention to any warning signs posted at the beach, officials said.

For the latest status on Long Beach recreational beach water quality, the public can call the Water Hotline at 562-570-4199 or visit longbeach.gov/beachwaterquality.

City Council votes to study whether it can replace Terminal Island freeway with park space