by Emma Watson, originally posted on January 20, 2017

ALL 36 of the Port Phillip Bay beaches the Environment Protection Authority monitors have been declared as having “poor” water quality after heavy rainfall overnight.

The warning follows a tumultuous week earlier this month when swimmers were warned to avoid 21 bay beaches or else risk contracting illnesses such as gastroenteritis.

EPA group manager of applied sciences Dr Anthony Boxshall warns against swimming at all waterways and beaches for up to 48 hours after heavy rain to avoid getting sick.

“Heavy rain and storms can create a risk to the public as they can flood stormwater systems that then carry pollution that has built up in drains into waterways,” Dr Boxshall said.

“Everyone should be checking the forecast before they go swimming.”

Rain should ease off this morning with a shower or two expected this afternoon and evening, and there’s a slight chance of rain early tomorrow.

The sun will come out on Sunday with Melbourne’s temperature expected to hit 30 degrees, but beachgoers should check the EPA beach report before jumping in the water.

You can check the water quality of your local beach at yarraandbay.vic.gov.au/beach-report or sign up for SMS notifications here.