LITTLE ROCK (KFSM) –Several swimming areas in Arkansas are closed due to an E. coli threat created by recent flooding.
According to the Arkansas Health Department the following swim beaches are closed as of May 27:
- Lake Wedington, Washington Co.
- Beaver Swim Beach, Carroll Co.
- Lake Leatherwood, Carroll Co.
- Waveland Beach, Logan Co.
- Oakland Swim Beach, Marion Co.
- Choctaw Swim Beach, Cleburne Co. (Greers Ferry Lake)
- Dam Site Beach, Cleburne Co. (Greers Ferry Lake)
- Devils Fork, Cleburne Co. (Greers Ferry Lake)
- Hill Creek, Cleburne Co. (Greers Ferry Lake)
- Albert Pike Recreation Area, Howard Co.
- Blanchard Springs, Stone Co.
According to the AHD, following the high amount of rainfall, runoff from the land surrounding the swim beaches picks up more bacteria that’s naturally present in the waste of nearly all animals.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, E. coli is a large group of bacteria. Some kinds can cause diarrhea, while others cause urinary tract infections, respiratory illness and pneumonia, and other illnesses.
