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A Brown Water Advisory has been issued today for West Hawaii from South Point to Pololu Valley in North Kohala.

The state Department of Health advises beach-users to stay out of water when it appears brown or murky, especially following storms or heavy rain.

After storms or heavy rain, the water may contain higher than normal pollutant levels.

The department recommends staying out of the water for 48-72 hours (2-3 days) after the rain has stopped and after the beach has received full sunshine.

The DOH also advises the public to avoid swimming, wading in or drinking water from any freshwater streams or pond to prevent leptospirosis, a bacterial infection caused by the Leptospira bacteria.