High bacteria levels prompt warnings at several Los Angeles area beaches

For Southern Californians opting to stay at home this Memorial Day weekend, a trip to the beach might be on the agenda. But health officials are urging residents to stay out of the water at several Los Angeles-area beaches. The ocean water use warnings were issued after tests concluded that bacterial levels in the water exceeded health standards, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health announced Thursday. Officials are encouraging beachgoers to avoid swimming, surfing and playing in the …