The Hawaiʻi Department of Health has issued a Brown Water Advisory for Waioli Beach on Kauaʻi, warning the public to avoid entering discolored or murky ocean water due to potentially elevated pollution levels.
Health officials said storm runoff and recent rainfall can wash bacteria, chemicals, debris and other contaminants into coastal waters, increasing the risk of illness for swimmers and other beachgoers.
The Department of Health is also urging the public to avoid swimming, wading, or drinking water from freshwater streams and ponds because they may contain Leptospira bacteria, which can cause leptospirosis, a bacterial infection.
The department advises residents and visitors to stay out of ocean water that appears brown or cloudy, even if a Brown Water Advisory has not been issued. Officials recommend avoiding affected waters for 48 to 72 hours after rainfall ends and until the area has received a full day of sunshine.
Click here for more information or updates on ocean conditions. Officials offered a simple reminder for beach users: “If the water is brown, turn around.”
