Venice and Dockweiler Beaches Closed After 15,000-Gallon Sewage Spill

Los Angeles County public health officials have closed ocean water near Ballona Creek following a 15,000-gallon sewage spill. The incident, which occurred around 4 p.m. on Saturday near the 2700 block of S. Cresta Place, was caused by a broken water main that pushed sand into the sewer, leading to the overflow. The closure affects a one-mile radius around the creek, including sections of Dockweiler State Beach and Venice Beach.

Beachgoers are advised to avoid the water and wet sand in the affected areas until the contamination is resolved. The closure is expected to last up to 48 hours and will remain in place until at least two consecutive water quality tests confirm that bacterial levels are within safe limits. Water sampling is scheduled to begin on Monday, July 22. For updates on beach conditions, the public can refer to the county's beach closure hotline or the Public Health Department's website.