Levels of E. coli can rise after heavy rainfall
09:18, 06 Jun 2026Updated 09:25, 06 Jun 2026
Ballygally beach
People have been advised against bathing in the water at a Co Antrim beach after high levels of E. coli were found.
The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) issued the temporary advice advising against bathing at Ballygally near Larne on Friday afternoon after the water was sampled.
DAERA said to look out for bathing water operator signs for specific advice.
A spokesperson for Mid and East Antrim Borough Council said on social media: “We have been notified by DAERA that the recent bathing water sample at Ballygally has a higher than acceptable result. People are advised NOT to enter the water until such times as the levels rerun to acceptable levels.”
E. coli are a group of bacteria that normally live in human and animal intestines. Some types are harmless, but some can cause severe illness and infections outside the gut, such as urinary tract infections.
Levels of E. coli can rise after heavy rainfall when bacteria from agricultural run-off and sewage discharges are washed into rivers and coastal waters.
In Northern Ireland, DAERA can advise against bathing when E. coli levels exceed 1,250 Colony Forming Units (CFU) per 100ml.
For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter here.