Ballina Shire Council is reminding residents and visitors to avoid swimming at beaches and waterways following this current wet weather event.
“With significant rain and flooding across the region, Ballina and Lennox Head beaches and other popular swimming spots are likely to be impacted by flood water and stormwater runoff. These areas may be unsuitable for swimming or other recreational activities,” said Mr Tom McAully Rix, Ballina Shire Council Environmental Officer.
After extended rainfall and flooding, swimming or other recreational activities should be avoided for as long as flood waters are present for public health and safety reasons.
“As a general precaution, swimming should be avoided for at least one day after heavy rainfall at ocean beaches, and for up to three days in estuarine sites and other places with minimal flushing,” explained Mr McAully Rix.
The most obvious signs of stormwater pollution are water discolouration as well as floating debris in the water and on the tide line. These waters contain runoff from agricultural and urban areas and can include vegetation, rubbish, oils, pesticides and sewage.
It may take several weeks before water quality returns to normal.
Council encourages local residents and visitors to be aware of weather events and the potential impacts on water quality.
For more information and results from the Beachwatch sampling visit environment.nsw.gov.au.
