Beach closures were in effect after an estimated 7,600 gallons of sewage were released into Morro Bay Harbor on Sunday, San Luis Obispo County officials said.
San Luis Obispo County’s Public Health Department said a broken sewage main at The Inn at Morro Bay, located at 60 State Park Road in Morro Bay, caused sewage to flow into a storm drain and out to the harbor.
Officials said in a statement Monday that the release had been mitigated.
There was no public beach access at the site of the sewage release, and advisory signs were posted at beaches to the north and south of it.
Public health officials advised the public to avoid ocean water 50 yards to the north and south of the sewage release.
Officials said, “Contact with ocean water while swimming or surfing may increase the risk for certain types of illnesses such as rashes, fever, chills, ear infections, vomiting, and diarrhea.”
Environmental Health Services personnel were expected to collect ocean water samples north and south of the sewage release Monday to analyze bacterial levels.
Officials said the beach closure would remain in place until bacterial levels are below state standards for safe water recreation.