Long Beach Beach closures after 27,000-gallon sewage leak

The incident prompted health officials to shut down coastal waters throughout Long Beach, raising concerns about potential contamination. A statement from the local health department identified the cause as a “force main break,” a pressurized pipe used to convey wastewater. The reason for the pipe’s failure remains under investigation.

Utility crews have diverted sewage flow to avoid further leakage and are currently engaged in emergency repairs. A contractor has been enlisted to handle cleanup efforts.

Authorities acknowledge that some sewage may have entered the ocean, triggering the mandated closures. State regulations require these closures until water quality testing confirms safe conditions.

The incident occurs during a period of heightened coastal vulnerability due to high tides, influenced by a stronger-than-usual El Nino pattern. Heavy machinery has been utilized along the shoreline to safeguard homes impacted by recent high-tide events.

Coastal flood advisories are in effect for Los Angeles, Orange, and Ventura counties, with additional high tides anticipated around Thanksgiving and Christmas. Long Beach has experienced recurring pollution issues this year, with wastewater originating from upstream communities flowing through the Los Angeles and San Gabriel rivers.

In May, a separate incident involved 2,400 gallons of oil spilling from a ruptured pipeline in Los Angeles and entering the LA River, requiring containment booms in Long Beach to prevent it from reaching the ocean.