Why Waiting is Key After a Storm

Have you ever thought about why you should avoid the beach after a storm? It's not just the big waves that should concern you. Rainwater can mix with leftover chemicals from wildfires, making beach water unsafe. Experts suggest waiting at least three days before swimming again. Some beaches were already closed due to fire pollution. The storm only emphasizes the need to stay away from the water. But don't worry! Scientists are hard at work testing the water and will let everyone know when it's safe to swim.Imagine the beach as a giant bathtub. When it rains, the water in the tub, which is the ocean, gets mixed with chemicals from nearby wildfires. These chemicals can be harmful if you swim in the water right after a storm. That's why experts advise waiting for a few days. Scientists are there to make sure the water is clean before you dive in.