Public Advised to Avoid Beaches in Toronto, Niagara, Lowestoft Over Sewage, Contamination

Public health authorities in Ontario and Suffolk have issued advisories against swimming at certain beaches due to water contamination risks. In Ontario, water is deemed unsafe for swimming when E. coli bacteria levels exceed specific thresholds, and additional factors such as rain, waves, and bird presence also increase health risks. Testing for E. coli can take over a day, so current conditions may vary, and exposure to high bacteria levels can cause serious illnesses. Similarly, in Lowestoft, Suffolk, a sewage spill prompted the Environment Agency to advise against bathing at Lowestoft North and South beaches, with ongoing water testing and public updates. The spill was linked to a storm overflow event, and authorities are coordinating responses to restore safe water quality. Both regions emphasize the importance of monitoring water quality to protect public health from bacterial and other contamination hazards.