State recreational water quality officials have issued a precautionary swimming advisory for the ocean area in Brunswick County, specifically around Oak Island. This comes after floodwaters were pumped into the ocean near Crowell Street to alleviate flooding from recent heavy rains. The flooding affected streets, yards, and housing in Oak Island and nearby communities.
The town’s decision to pump floodwater into the ocean aims to minimize damage and ensure that roads remain accessible for emergency vehicles. However, these waters may carry pollutants such as waste from wildlife and pets, oil and gasoline from parking lots, and waste from septic systems or sewers.
Officials stress that this advisory does not suggest the presence of disease-causing organisms in the water but serves as a caution about an increased risk of contamination that could lead to health issues. Signs will be placed at the discharge site along the beach to inform the public of potential health risks. These signs will be removed 24 hours after pumping ceases, with state officials providing notification once they are taken down.
The state’s Recreational Water Quality Program regularly samples 222 sites throughout the coastal region, primarily on a weekly basis from April to October. Testing is reduced during colder months.
For further details on the N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program or to view testing site maps, individuals are encouraged to visit the program’s website or follow its social media accounts.
