UPDATED: Recreational Water Advisory LIFTED for Beach at Rehoboth Avenue

UPDATED – 07/04/25 – DNREC has lifted this swimming advisory. A re-test was conducted July 3, and following a 24-hour lab test, the water sample from Rehoboth Avenue showed the level of fecal indicator bacteria was now below the standard.  

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ORIGINAL STORY – 07/03/25 – The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) has issued a recreational water advisory today for a portion of Rehoboth Beach. Elevated levels of bacteria were found in a water sample taken yesterday at Rehoboth Avenue. The beach remains open, but swimmers are advised to use caution and avoid prolonged periods in the water. Most people who swim in water with elevated bacteria levels will not get sick, but a few may become seriously ill. Those at risk include children and individuals older than 65, with medical conditions, or weakened immune systems. Swimmers should avoid submerging their heads in the water.

Additional Information:

 Elevated levels of bacteria can often be associated with heavy rain episodes, such as those the area has experienced this week. Stormwater runoff may collect bacteria from pet and wildlife waste.

Additional Information from DNREC:

Type: Recreational Water Advisory

Reason: Bacteria
Location: Rehoboth Beach – Rehoboth Avenue

Start Date: 07/03/2025
Start Time: 15:31

End Date: 07/04/2025
End Time: 17:31

Description: Swimming Advisory
Comments: A recreational water advisory (swimming advisory) has been issued for Rehoboth Beach – Rehoboth Avenue due to fecal indicator bacteria results which were above the recreational water quality standard. The purpose of this swimming advisory is to advise the public that elevated bacteria levels were found during routine sampling so that individuals are equipped to make informed decisions about recreational water activities based on their personal medical condition. Illness risk from elevated bacteria results is most significant in persons with certain medical conditions or compromised immune systems, and it is recommended to ask your doctor if you are unsure whether you are in the at-risk group for infections from recreational water contact. The high result at Rehoboth Avenue is likely the result of heavy rainfall and resulting runoff in the days preceding sampling. Historical knowledge shows that water quality conditions change quickly at our ocean beaches; an additional sample has been taken at Rehoboth Beach – Rehoboth Avenue, and the advisory will be lifted once indicator bacteria levels are below the standard. For more information go to https://recwaters.dnrec.delaware.gov