State officials have issued a swimming advisory for a sound-side location in Carteret County, citing elevated bacteria levels. The affected area is situated west of the Atlantic Beach High-rise Bridge in Bogue Sound near Atlantic Beach. Water samples collected on May 28 and May 29 revealed bacteria concentrations surpassing both state and federal thresholds of 104 enterococci per 100 milliliters, applicable to Tier 2 non-daily use sites.
Enterococci, the bacterial group used in testing, originates from the intestines of warm-blooded animals. Although it does not directly cause illness, its presence may indicate other harmful organisms. Individuals swimming or engaging in water activities where bacteria levels exceed recommended limits face an increased risk of gastrointestinal issues or skin infections.
The advisory is not equivalent to a beach closure and does not encompass the entire Bogue Sound area. It specifically targets waters within 200 feet of the posted sign. The sign reads: “ATTENTION SWIMMING IN THIS AREA IS NOT RECOMMENDED. BACTERIA TESTING INDICATES LEVELS OF CONTAMINATION THAT MAY BE HAZARDOUS TO YOUR HEALTH. THIS ADVISORY AFFECTS WATERS WITHIN 200’ OF THIS SIGN.” The notice comes from the Office of the State Health Director.
Officials will continue monitoring the site and will remove the advisory once bacteria levels return to acceptable standards. State recreational water quality officials regularly sample 222 sites across the coastal region, predominantly on a weekly basis from April to October, with reduced frequency during colder months.
For further details on the N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program or to access a map of testing locations, visit their website or follow their social media accounts.
