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LA Surfers Ignore Unsafe Water Quality Amid Wildfire Runoff

Originally posted on SURFER | By Dashel Pierson | Last updated Jan 19, 2025 2:05 PM ET

A slew of signs, dotting the beaches from Surfrider Beach in Malibu, down to Dockweiler Beach in El Segundo, have been posted in the wake of the historic, catastrophic wildfires that have plagued Los Angeles communities in recent weeks. Why? Potentially toxic runoff from the firefighting efforts have made their way into the ocean. But that hasn’t stopped surfers from paddling out.

In a clip from Shacked Mag, a platform posting videos featuring “the good, the bad, and the craziness of Los Angeles beaches,” shows surfers enjoying ankle-slappers at the Venice Beach Pier, despite the signage warnings on the beach. Aptly, the song choice for the video features Queen’s seminal 1979 ballad, “Don’t Stop Me Now.” Check out the clip below:

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Per LA County:

“The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is issuing an Ocean Water Advisory out of an abundance of caution due to runoff from current fire-fighting efforts. The Department advises beach users to avoid all water contact, especially near discharging storm drains, creeks, and rivers due to potential debris from fires and contamination. This includes any runoff that may flow onto or pond on the beach sand.

“This ocean water advisory is being issued due to the unknown quantity of fire-fighting runoff, including potentially toxic chemicals and debris, that have entered the ocean as a result of fire-fighting efforts.”

Despite the advisory – and the lackluster waves – surfers can have been seen in the water over the weekend from Malibu to Venice and beyond. All of which is within the potentially hazardous area.

What’re the dangers? How long will the advisory last?

The County continued:

“Individuals who enter the water in these areas could become ill. This advisory will remain in effect until 3 days after fire-fighting efforts end and notification is provided by the Department of Public Health.”

Stay safe.

This article first appeared on SURFER and was syndicated with permission.

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