Rainfall runoff closes 3 Nassau beaches

Three Nassau County beaches are closed to swimmers because of concerns over possible bacteria, health officials said Thursday.

Prohibiting swimming at the South Shore beaches is a precautionary measure, the Nassau County Department of Health said. Recent heavy rains increase the chances of stormwater runoff sweeping bacteria and pathogens into local streams and bays, causing bacterial levels at the beaches to spike, health officials say.

The three closed beaches are Biltmore Beach Club and Philip Healey Beach, both in Massapequa, and the Merrick Estates Civic Association.

To speak with a Nassau County Department of Health representative, weekdays, 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., call 516-227-9717.

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.