Beach water quality monitoring. July 2025. (Photo courtesy of Lambton Public Health via Facebook)Beach water quality monitoring. July 2025. (Photo courtesy of Lambton Public Health via Facebook)
Sarnia

High levels of bacteria detected at Lambton beaches

Three area beaches have been posted as unsafe for swimming due to high levels of bacteria after Wednesday's heavy rainfall and thunderstorms.

Lambton Public Health said warning signs have been posted at Grand Bend North, Ipperwash Main, and Bright's Grove Beach (including Mike Weir Park).

Swimming while the water contains high levels of bacteria can cause skin, ear, eye, nose, and throat infections, as well as stomach disorders.

The warning signs will be removed from impacted beaches once bacterial levels return to an acceptable level.

Over 70 millimetres of rain fell in about an hour as thunderstorms moved across the region on Wednesday.

Swimming should be avoided for 24 to 48 hours after heavy rainfall, as rain can wash contaminants into streams, rivers, and lakes.

The health unit launched its water quality monitoring program in June, and it will continue through to the end of August.

Seven public beaches along the Lake Huron shoreline are monitored during the summer season.

Further details about beach water quality testing can be found on the health unit's website.

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