The primary risk associated with Great Lakes beach closures is exposure to bacteria such as E. coli and enterococci, which can lead to gastrointestinal illnesses, ear infections, eye infections, and skin rashes. Urban beaches and those near storm drains are most affected, with Lake Erie beaches seeing frequent advisories. Heavy rain exacerbates the problem by flushing contaminants into the lakes, while waterfowl also contribute significantly to bacterial levels. Swimmers are advised to avoid the water for 24 to 48 hours after storms to reduce health risks. (Source: WorldAtlas, Source time: Mon, 10 Aug 2026 20:00:00 GMT)