Bacteria Scare: 63 Long Island Beaches Closed After Heavy Rainfall

Health officials on Long Island have advised against going to over 60 local beaches after a period of heavy rainfall could lead to elevated bacteria levels.

On Thursday, June 27, the Suffolk County Health Department announced an advisory against bathing at 63 beaches.

The warning will stay in place until 5 a.m. on Friday, June 28.

Officials said the decision is based on the potential bacteria levels at these beaches, which currently exceed New York State standards due to the recent rainfall in the area.

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Some of the closed beaches include:

• Amityville Village Beach
• Tanner Park
• Stony Brook Beach
• Miller Place Park Beach
• Eagle Dock Community Beach
• West Neck Beach

Said beaches are located in areas that have seen stormwater runoff from watersheds or adjacent tributaries, but are enclosed embayments that have limited tidal flushing, allowing bacteria to build up.

Health officials recommended that two tidal flushing cycles occur in the area before the ban is lifted — a process that usually takes 24 hours.

The Health Department explained that if samples reveal elevated bacteria levels beyond the 24-hour period, the ban could remain in place longer.

For the full list of closed beaches, click here.