7 Jersey Shore Beaches Show High Bacteria Levels, Swimming Warnings Posted

Water tests at seven beaches triggered swimming alerts when bacteria counts shot past twice the safety mark. At Point Pleasant's River Avenue, tests detected Enterococci at 260 colony units per sample, while six Cape May spots measured 120 units each.

Bad water struck Wildwood Crest hard. Tests failed at Lavender Road, Orchid Road, Miami Avenue, Hollywood Beach, and Jefferson Avenue spots. Stone Harbor's 104th Street Bay Area also missed state marks.

Officials set safe limits at 104 colony units. While beaches stay open, red flags went up fast. Staff rushed to start new tests right away.

When animal and human waste mixes with beach water, these tiny troublemakers multiply fast. Swimming in dirty water can upset stomachs, irritate skin, and spark other health troubles.

"Wildlife and pet waste, leaky sewers and septic systems, as well as storm runoff, are some of the common causes of fecal bacteria pollution along beaches," states the Asbury Park Press.

Medical experts stress extra caution for kids, seniors, and those with weak immune systems. Bad water hits these groups hardest.

Beach patrols will block access if the next tests stay high. State teams keep checking the water until it cleans up and meets strict safety rules.

Most New Jersey beaches shine with clean bills of health. These seven spots stand out as rare exceptions as summer kicks into gear.