Health department issues brown water advisory for Nīnole area

A brown water advisory has been issued for the Nīnole area in Hawaiʻi, according to the Hawaii Department of Health.

Health officials are warning beachgoers to stay out of the ocean when the water appears brown or murky, particularly after heavy rain or storms, when pollution levels may be elevated.

The department recommends avoiding ocean activities for 48 to 72 hours after rainfall ends and conditions return to normal, including when the area has had adequate sunlight.

Officials also urged the public to avoid swimming or wading in freshwater streams and ponds due to the risk of leptospirosis, a bacterial illness spread through contaminated water.

Beachgoers seeking more information can click here.