Swimming Temporarily Prohibited at Two Boca Raton Beaches After Water Sampling

Boca Raton South Inlet beach and lifeguard station. (Photo: Boca Daily News)

Officials have closed two beaches to swimming after a routine water sampling test showed elevated levels of bacteria.

According to the city’s parks department, the Florida Department of Health of Palm Beach County has posted a health advisory for Spanish River Park and South Inlet Park beaches following a recent water quality test showed the pollutants’ presence. Bacteria in local waterways is known to increase during the region’s rainy season, when higher levels of runoff make their way into the wider ecosystem.

“A recent sampling showed elevated bacterial levels in the water,” the advisory said. “For the safety of residents and visitors, swimming is prohibited until further notice.”

The parks and beaches themselves will remain open, however, the notice said. Only swimming is restricted. Additional water samples will be taken and it is hoped full use of the beaches may resume within the next 24 to 48 hours, the city said.

South Inlet Park is a Palm Beach County park, under county jurisdiction, while Spanish River Park is owned and operated by the city.