Houghton Beach in Kirkland Remains Closed Due to High Bacteria Levels
Get personalized newsletters for any city in the world with Headline, sign up here.
Houghton Beach in Kirkland, Washington, has been closed since July 16 due to dangerously high levels of bacteria, prompting local officials to warn the public to avoid the area. The beach will remain closed for at least another week until testing shows that bacteria levels have decreased to within safe limits set by the county. King County crews conduct routine water quality tests at popular swimming areas from May to September, ensuring that public health is prioritized during the summer months. They plan to revisit Houghton Beach weekly to assess water safety. This beach had a brief reopening in early July, but the elevated bacteria levels led to its closure once again.
The situation underscores the importance of regular monitoring and swift action to protect public health. Residents are encouraged to stay updated on the beach's status and comply with safety advisories. Such measures are critical in maintaining safe recreational spaces for the community.