Several U.S. beaches are closing early this year due to high levels of fecal contamination in the water. The East Coast, from Maine to Florida, is particularly affected, with popular spots like Keyes Memorial Beach and Benjamin's Beach experiencing closures. Warnings have also been issued in California and Hawaii. Swimming in contaminated water can lead to gastrointestinal illnesses and infections of the eyes, ears, nose, and throat. This is not an isolated incident, as previous reports indicated a majority of U.S. beaches had potentially unsafe levels of contamination in 2024. An estimated 57 million illnesses in the U.S. annually result from swimming in contaminated waters, with many cases going unreported. Heavy rains are a significant contributor, washing fecal bacteria into bodies of water. The CDC warns that swallowing contaminated water or getting it into open wounds can cause illness. Climate change is linked to more frequent water-related events like floods, which can exacerbate contamination issues. Warmer waters also contribute to increased rates of dangerous bacteria like Vibrio vulnificus, which can be deadly.