Northeast, Michigan Beaches Closed Over Contamination

Beaches across Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, and Michigan have been temporarily closed or placed under advisories due to elevated bacteria levels and harmful algae blooms. In Connecticut, specific closures affect beaches in Norwalk, West Haven, Milford, Westport, and state parks like Silver Sands and Sherwood Island, though non-swimming activities at parks continue. The primary causes of contamination include heavy rainfall, increased runoff, and leaking sewers, resulting in high levels of bacteria such as Enterococci and E. coli. New York swim sites, including Mohegan Colony Association and Mohegan Beach Park District, face closures due to algae blooms. New Jersey and Michigan have also issued advisories and closures for similar contamination issues. Health officials urge the public to avoid swimming and fishing in affected waters until regular testing confirms safety.