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Seattle Beaches Shut: High Bacteria Levels Pose Health Risks
28 May
Summary
- Matthews Beach Park and Pritchard Island Beach are now unsafe for swimming.
- High levels of bacteria have been detected in the water at these Seattle beaches.
- Toxic algae at Green Lake Park also makes it unsafe for people and pets.
Seattle is experiencing widespread beach closures as high levels of bacteria have rendered several popular swimming spots unsafe. Matthews Beach Park and Pritchard Island Beach were recently added to the list of closed locations due to detected bacteria. This announcement comes as the city anticipates warmer weather, with temperatures expected to climb near 80 degrees Fahrenheit this week.
Concerns extend beyond bacteria, as Green Lake Park is also impacted by toxic algae. Officials advise against swimming, water skiing, or allowing pets near the water due to the presence of cyanobacteria, which can form visible scum on the surface. Other beaches in King County, including Gene Coulon Memorial Beach, Houghton Beach, and Newcastle Beach, are also closed due to similar bacterial contamination issues, underscoring a significant public health concern for the region's recreational waters.
