Fernald Point and Miramar Beaches in Montecito are closed due to a sewage spill

 By Callie Fausey

January 18, 2023 

5,760 gallons of untreated sewage were spilled from a compromised sewage line into East Valley Lane and into San Ysidro Creek.

Due to an untreated sewage flow, Montecito's beaches have been closed. On January 17, the Santa Barbara Public Health Department declared Miramar Beach and Fernald Point Beach to be "BEACH CLOSED."

According to the agency, the spill entailed the release of around 5,760 gallons of sewage into San Ysidro Creek on East Valley Lane in Montecito through a damaged sewage pipe. Within 2,000 feet of the San Ysidro Creek outfall, the beaches at Miramar and Fernald Point have been declared unsafe for swimming.

Affected areas have signs up warning people to stay away from the water until it is certified safe for recreational usage. Certain diseases are more likely to be contracted by contact with sewage-contaminated water.

In a little more than a week, a South County beach has been closed due to a second sewage leak. 5,000 gallons of sewage spilled into a storm drain near Vernon Road and Serena Road during the January 9 storm last week, closing West Beach for several days. The storm drain discharged to Mission Creek.

In light of recent rains, Santa Barbara County Environmental Health Services is also warning citizens about potential health hazards related to storm runoff at countywide beaches. According to Public Health, storm water is untreated rainfall that enters rivers, the ocean, and other waterways through the drainage system.

Rashes, fever, chills, ear infections, vomiting, and diarrhoea are just a few of the ailments that may become more common after coming into contact with storm water. The water conveyed by a storm drain system is not treated, in contrast to the municipal sewer system. Public Health advises not swimming, playing, or surfing in the ocean and streams for at least three days after a rain event in order to reduce any health concerns.

Additionally, the government advises against visiting places close to streams that empty into the ocean and drain pipe outfalls because storm water runoff may include high concentrations of chemicals and germs.

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