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3h ago

Michigan Flags 13 Beaches for Bacteria Ahead of Busy Weekend

Officials cite elevated bacteria levels that make swimming unsafe at select inland and Great Lakes sites.

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UIC student Andre Mejía collects water samples on Aug. 8, 2025, at Rainbow Beach as part of a collaboration between UIC and the Chicago Park District to have water tested. The results allow the Park District to relay the most up-to-date water quality conditions on its website and through a color-coded flag system. (E. Jason Wambsgans/Chicago Tribune)

Overview

  • As of Friday, Aug. 22, 13 Michigan beaches are either closed or under contamination advisories due to high bacteria readings.
  • Notices span both inland lakes and Great Lakes locations, with causes listed as wildlife, stormwater runoff, or unknown sources depending on the site.
  • Examples include closures at Eagle Harbor Beach on Lake Superior and Pontiac Lake, and advisories at Park Lake and West Grand Traverse Bay’s Sunset Park.
  • Statuses are updated frequently as new test results arrive through the state’s Beach Guard system, which tracks 1,244 public and 574 private beaches.
  • With a warm Saturday and rain possible Sunday, officials advise checking the Beach Guard site for the latest conditions before heading to the water.