Section of Pawleys Island beach under swimming advisory because of high bacteria levels in water

PAWLEYS ISLAND, S.C. (WBTW) — State officials have issued a short-term swimming advisory along a section of the Pawleys Island coastline because of bacteria levels in the water that were found to be above state and federal standards.

The beach remains open, but swimming is not advised in the area near the Hazard Street access point, the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services said Sunday morning in a news release.

Officials said it is still safe to wade in the water, collect shells and fish but that the water should not be swallowed. In addition, anyone with an open wound or compromised immune system should avoid contact with the water in the area.   

Short-term swimming advisories typically last just a few days, the SCDES said. They are usually lifted once follow-up water sampling shows that bacteria levels have returned to normal.

SCDES tests water quality along the oceanfront in accordance with federal and state laws. The water is tested for enterococci bacteria, which are naturally found in warm-blooded animals, including humans. However, high levels of enterococci bacteria in water indicate the potential risk for other organisms that might cause disease in humans, such as gastrointestinal illness or skin infections.     

SCDES routinely collects water samples at more than 120 locations along South Carolina’s beaches to monitor bacteria levels. More information about monitoring and testing can be found on the agency’s website or by calling 843-238-4378.