Five Vancouver beaches closed to swimming over high E. coli levels

Five Vancouver beaches have been closed to swimming after water tests found elevated E. coli levels, according to health officials. Sunset Beach in the West End had already been under a noswimming advisory since June 12. Since then, Vancouver Coastal Health added restrictions at Kits Point Beach, Third Beach, English Bay Beach, and Trout Lake after sampling showed bacteria levels above safe limits. Officials said Third Beach and English Bay registered E. coli readings more than four times the accepted guideline. Locarno Beach in Point Grey is still under investigation, but it was not restricted as of Thursday afternoon. Health officials warn that exposure to contaminated water can cause stomach illness, infections, and skin irritation, with children, seniors, and people with weaker immune systems facing the highest risk. Vancouver residents can check current beach water quality updates on Vancouver Coastal Health’s website.