State health officials issued a brown water advisory for the Hanalei Bay Pavilion area on Kaua‘i.
Hawai‘i Department of Health advises beachgoers to stay out of waters that appear brown or murky, especially following storms or heavy rainfall, even if a brown water advisory is not in effect for area. Water could contain higher-than-normal pollutant levels.
Officials recommend staying out of affected waters for 48 to 72 hours after rain stops and the beach received full sunshine.
The public also is advised to avoid swimming, wading in or drinking water from any freshwater streams or ponds to prevent leptospirosis, a bacterial infection caused by Leptospira bacteria.
Remember: if water is brown, turn around.
Visit the state Clean Water Branch website for additional information and updates.
