4 Anne Arundel beaches placed under no-swim advisories for high bacteria levels

August 4, 2026 - 04:23

Health officials in Anne Arundel County have posted no-swim advisories at four local beaches after routine water testing showed bacteria levels above state safety thresholds. The affected areas are now off-limits for any water-contact activities, including swimming, wading, and waterskiing, until further notice.

The advisories were issued after samples collected earlier this week exceeded the allowable limits for enterococci, a bacteria group that indicates fecal contamination. While most healthy adults may only experience mild stomach upset or skin irritation, young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems face a higher risk of more serious illness.

County officials stress that the bans are precautionary and that the beaches remain open for sunbathing and other dry-land activities. The advisories will stay in effect until follow-up testing shows the water quality has returned to safe levels, which typically takes 24 to 48 hours after the source of contamination, often heavy rain runoff, clears.

Residents are urged to check the county's online water quality dashboard before heading out, as conditions can change quickly after storms. The four beaches under advisory are not named in the initial release, but local parks and recreation staff have posted physical signs at each location. Anyone with questions about specific beach status can call the county health department's hotline.