Swimming advisory issued for parts of North Myrtle Beach, Briarcliffe

This article has been updated to correct the name of the town to North Myrtle Beach.

The Department of Health and Environmental Control on Wednesday warned people of elevated bacteria levels in the ocean in parts of North Myrtle Beach and the Town of Briarcliffe.

The temporary swimming advisory, which typically only lasts a few days, affects the areas 200 feet above and below 3rd Avenue North and 17th Avenue South in North Myrtle Beach, and 200 feet above and below Briarcliffe Cabana in the Town of Briarcliffe.

The swimming advisories are issued when DHEC detects bacteria levels that are higher than normal. The agency says that although it’s safe to wade and fish, people should avoid putting their heads under the surface to prevent swallowing water.

In addition, DHEC says people with open cuts and wounds should avoid contact with the water entirely.

Christian Boschult, 843-626-0218, @TSN_Christian

This story was originally published July 25, 2018 at 4:58 PM.