High bacteria levels were found in ocean water at several beaches and have prompted the closure of three Hawaii tourist beaches in the Aloha State.
In Waikiki, Queens Surf beach as well as the Ewa side of Ala Moana Beach Park have seen signs posted with warning for swimmers because of the high bacteria levels.
The Health Clean Water Branch of the state Department said that inspectors detected elevated levels of enterococci at the following beaches:
- Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve (137 per 100 mL)
- Ala Moana Regional Park (659 per 100 mL)
- Two sites at Queen’s Beach in Waikiki (1,298 per 100 mL and 1,445 per 100 mL)
According to standard, the normal level for enterococci, which is commonly found in the digestive system of mammals and birds doesn’t surpass 130 per 100 mL.Generally DOH officials issue alerts when levels exceed 130.Due to the elevated levels, a city spokesperson said Hanauma Bay would be closed on Thursday.However,the upper viewing area, parking lot, and visitor center will be remained open for public.
This pathogen has caused millions of human infections every year.Officials say swimming in waters with elevated bacteria counts could make you sick. So mostly Children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems are most likely to fall sick sooner.
Myeong Kim, a Korean visitor, said she was upset to learn the beach was closed.“So sad. I wanted to swim there. I don’t have many days here, so we will look around other sites,” said Kim.
