High bacteria levels at Municipal Beach in Monterey prompts warning

MONTEREY, Calif. -- High levels of bacteria at Monterey Municipal Beach has led to an advisory warning the public to not make contact with the water, Monterey County health officials said Friday.

Samples taken from the water on Wednesday showed a high indicator of bacteria that makes it unsafe for recreation based on state guidelines, health officials said.

People who have physical contact with the water can put themselves at risk for illness, according to health officials.

Some sources of bacteria include marine life, other animals, rainfall runoff, storm drains and human activity, health officials said.

Rain is considered a source due runoff from manmade and natural storm drains, public health officials said.

More information on Monterey Peninsula beaches can be found by calling the beach condition hotline at (800) 347-6363 or going online.