The wild weather has been whipping up bay waves and washing a lot of litter down our stormwater drains causing a general decline in water quality.
EPA Victoria is warning against coming into contact with Port Phillip Bay waters until conditions improve. People should also take care walking through any beach debris and keep an eye on EPA's daily Beach Report at https://www.epa.vic.gov.au/for-community/summer-water-quality/beach-report .
"Recent rain combined with rough sea conditions has resulted in organic debris and litter washed up on beaches and a decrease in water quality. That can have an effect on the health of people or their pets if they decide to brave the conditions and go in for a swim," said EPA Water Scientist Darren Cottam.
"We always warn against swimming for up to 48 hours after rainfall but with the current weather conditions and extended high winds, it could be a few days yet before water quality returns to the usual safe levels."
"We were out sampling beaches yesterday (Tuesday 3 September) and we've also been receiving reports about debris washing on to the beaches. Some of it is naturally occurring, like red algae seen on St Kilda Beach yesterday, but other debris will have come from a variety of sources. We advise people to take care if they are on litter patrol.
"Beach water quality at beaches may be impacted for a few days yet with rain or wind forecast through to Friday 6 September."
