Parts of Newport Harbor closed after sewage spill

This corrects an earlier version of the story.

Environmental health officials have closed a number of areas along Orange County’s coastline, including a portion of Newport Harbor, due to a sewage spill.

Docks E through H at the Balboa Bay Club and OCC Crew Docks in Newport Beach were reported closed just after noon Monday as the bacteria levels were unsafe, officials said. The spill was caused by a line break at a private vessel pump-out station, according to a news release from the Orange County Health Care Agency.

Other beaches had warnings of unhealthy water conditions. These include: 500 feet north and south of Magnolia Street in Huntington State Beach, all of Dana Point Harbor, and parts of San Clemente to the south.

Long-term effects are expected in Newport Harbor due to urban runoff from the previous storms this past weekend. The Harbor Marina and the 33rd Street channel from 33rd to 37th streets will also be closed. In other areas the bacteria levels near storm drains can become quite toxic, especially considering the runoff from the Santiago Canyon fire in October.

Beach visitors are strongly advised to avoid contact with bay water in those areas, officials said.

To report an illness call (714) 433-6280 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, or to report a sewage spill call (714) 433-6419 during business hours and (714) 628-7008 after. Or visit www.ocbeachinfo.com.

— Kelly Strodl