August 5, 2026
Media Contacts: Mary Wainwright, Environmental Health Manager, 757-253-4286
Mary.wainwright@vdh.virginia.gov
Swimming Advisory Issued for Buckroe Beach South
HAMPTON, Va.– The Hampton Health District has issued a swimming advisory for Buckroe Beach South. Samples collected on August 4 by the Hampton Health District showed that bacteria levels in the water exceeded the state water quality standard.
Health district staff routinely monitor recreational waters for bacteria during the summer swimming season. Signs are posted at the beaches alerting the public of advisories. The signs read: “Warning swimmers – bacteria levels do not meet state water quality standards, swimming not advised until further notice”.
Health officials collected additional samples on Wednesday, and results should be available on Thursday. Officials will remove the signs and notify the public when bacteria levels fall to meet state water quality standards.
People swimming or playing in waters with bacteria levels higher than the standard have an increased risk of developing gastrointestinal illness. Health officials use a bacteria called enterococci to determine the extent of fecal contamination in recreational waters. While these organisms do not cause illness, scientific studies indicate that their presence is closely correlated to the presence of other disease-causing organisms.
“We encourage the public to protect their health by complying with this advisory,” said Mary Wainwright, Environmental Health Manager of the Hampton & Peninsula Health Districts. “Typically, an advisory of this nature is temporary and will be withdrawn once the bacteria levels have returned to a safe level.”
Residents are encouraged to check current advisories before visiting local beaches.
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