WESTERN UPPER PENINSULA — The Western Upper Peninsula Health Department has issued a precautionary beach closure for all recreational bathing beaches in the Western Upper Peninsula. This is due to severe erosion and flooding caused by heavy rains.

The public is encouraged to stay away from beaches until flooding has subsided and waters are determined to be safe.

Heavy rains can wash bird and animal droppings into larger bodies of water, resulting in higher than normal E.Coli numbers.

This precautionary beach closure advisory remains in effect until results from the sampling verify the water is safe for body contact. Health Department staff will conduct sampling of beach water to determine if the water is safe for swimming. Another notice will be issued when the swimming advisory has been lifted. If you have any questions, call the Health Department.