State issues brown water advisory at Hilo Bay, along Hāmākua Coast

State health officials issued a brown water advisory at Hilo Bay and along the Hāmākua Coast on the east side of the Big Island.

Hawai‘i Department of Health advises beach users to stay out of waters that appear brown or murky, especially following storms or heavy rain — even if a brown water advisory is not issued in the area.

Water after storms or heavy rainfall events can contain higher-than-normal levels of pollutants. It is recommended to stay out of affected waters for 48 to 72 hours after rain stops and the beach received full sunshine.

Hawai‘i Department of Health also advises the public to avoid swimming, wading in or drinking water from any freshwater streams or ponds to prevent leptospirosis, a bacterial infection caused by Leptospira bacteria.

Remember: if the water is brown, turn around.

Visit the state Health Department Clean Water Branch website for additional information and updates.