Local authorities reported a sewage spill of around 250,000 gallons into the Los Angeles River on Thursday, leading to the temporary closure of seven miles of public beaches. The spill occurred due to a malfunction in sanitation maintenance equipment that resulted in a blockage causing an overflow of sewage in Downey, a city located about 15 miles from Long Beach. The sewage reached the Los Angeles River, which ultimately caused the closure of coastal swimming areas.
The city of Long Beach has cited a state law that requires the temporary closure of coastal swimming areas until water quality meets state requirements. As the Los Angeles River connects to the Pacific Ocean in Long Beach, pollution anywhere upriver can impact the coastal waters of the city. Sanitation crews have completed the initial round of cleaning, and the health authorities are currently monitoring water quality. However, it is unclear when the beaches will reopen.
