While the Delaware beaches were already seeing a high risk for rip currents amid rainy weather Wednesday, the state Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control gave another reason for beachgoers to stay on the sand: A recreational water advisory in Rehoboth Beach.
DNREC issued a water advisory for the areas of Virginia Avenue (on the north side of the Boardwalk) and Rehoboth Avenue due to high levels of an indicator bacteria known as Enterococci.
These bacteria most likely come from wildlife feeding near the surf − such as shorebirds, marine mammals or other warm-blooded animals − or increased rainfall and waves like the past two days, according to DNREC.
The beaches remain open during water advisories, but the state department advises swimmers to be cautious and know that there could be potentially harmful bacteria in the water.
DNREC routinely tests recreational waters during the summer, and the water advisory will be lifted when the indicator bacteria levels lower within the “recreational water limits.”
The area of Rehoboth Avenue has reported high levels of bacteria three other times this summer, and the Virginia Avenue beach had an advisory one other time this summer.
WATER ADVISORY:Water advisory for Rehoboth Beach lifted Wednesday afternoon after high bacteria levels
This is the sixth total water advisory for the Delaware beaches this summer, beating last year’s five advisories, according to DNREC data.
Emily Lytle covers Sussex County from the inland towns to the beaches, with a focus on health-related issues. Got a story she should tell? Contact her at elytle@delmarvanow.com or 302-332-0370. Follow her on Twitter at @emily3lytle.
