Four Minneapolis beaches closed due to high E. coli levels

Four Minneapolis beaches have been closed to the public due to high levels of E. coli in the water, according to the Minneapolis Parks and Recreations Board.

Beaches are closed at Lake Harriet North, Lake Hiawatha, and the North Beach and 32nd Street beach at Bde Maka Ska. No illnesses have been reported at this time.

High levels of the bacteria were found in the water after 30 days of geometric testing. The parks board said this is expected due to flooding and the bacteria appearing in hot, still water.

MPRB staff will re-sample and reopen the beach when bacteria levels are within state guidelines.

Officials remind Minnesotans that swimming is not recommended after heavy rainfall due to higher bacteria levels. People and their pets should keep away from water if there is blue-green algae on the surface. In some cases, it could also be reddish-purple.

For up-to-date alerts on what beaches are closed around Minneapolis, visit the MPRB website.

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