Several beaches along the Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia coastlines have been closed to swimmers due to medical waste washing ashore. The Assateague Island National Seashore, which spans Virginia and Maryland, has closed all ocean-facing beaches to swimming and wading. The source of the medical waste is unknown, and health authorities are investigating the issue.
Closures have also been extended to beaches in Delaware, with Dewey Beach and Fenwick Island announcing closures to swimmers. The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control is closely monitoring the situation and advises beachgoers to avoid swimming in the ocean and wear shoes.
The Assateague Island National Seashore reported that medical waste began washing ashore on Sunday morning, but those who were in the water prior should not be concerned. The National Park Service has no information on the source of the waste, and the duration of the closures remains uncertain.
Specific closures at Assateague Island National Seashore include all areas north of Assateague State Park, Assateague Island State Park Beach, and all oceanside beaches within the park. Beaches in Dewey Beach and Fenwick Island in Delaware have also been closed.
Authorities are urging beach visitors to stay informed about the situation and follow safety precautions until the issue is resolved.
Photo credit
www.usatoday.com