Heavy rains close five Nassau beaches

Five Nassau beaches on the South shore have been closed to swimming after Sunday's heavy rainfall, the county's Department of Health said Monday.

The department typically closes beaches as a precautionary measure because storm runoff can elevate bacteria levels and affect water quality.

Beached closed include the Biltmore Beach Club, Hewlett Point Beach, Island Park Beach, Merrick Estates Civic Association and Philip Healey Beach.

For recorded information on beach closings and openings in Nassau, call 516-227-9700. Health department representatives are available weekdays, from 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., at 516-227-9717.