UPDATE | Long Beach Health Officials have re-opened Alamitos Bay as of today, December 23 after lab results indicated that bacterial levels were within state standards, following the December 18 sewage spill in Naples, caused by a force main break. Daily water samples taken from Alamitos Bay swimming sites now confirm that the water is safe for swimming.

PREVIOUSLY: Alamitos Bay Closed Due to Sewage Spill, Health Advisory Issued Due to Rain

12/18/14 12:57PM | A sewage spill Wednesday night in Alamitos Bay has resulted in a beach closure for all swimming areas of the bay. While the spill has been contained, the total volume of the spill was estimated at approximately 11,250 gallons with 5,250 gallons entering the bay. City crews captured the remaining 6,000 gallons of the spill, preventing it from reaching the water. The spill was caused by a break in a 12-inch sewer main near the Ravenna Drive Bridge.

Until lab results from daily testing confirm that the water is safe for swimming, Long Beach Health Officer Dr. Mitchell Kushner is ordering all swimming areas in Alamitos Bay closed for water contact.

Aside from the spill, Dr. Kushner has issued a rain advisory for recreational beaches and bays in Long Beach following the rain experienced in the last 24 hours. After any significant rainfall, unhealthy conditions may result from increased runoff from storm drain outlets and rivers, which eventually reach the city’s beaches. Recreational swimming areas should be avoided for at least three days after the end of a rainstorm.