Lake Elsinore Closed Due To Storm Conditions

The city of Lake Elsinore is reporting it has closed its lake until further notice due to winter storm conditions.

According to the city, the lake has recently risen over 4.5 feet as a result of rainfall and high storm water flows from the San Jacinto River. The conditions may result in potentially unhealthful bacteria concentrations, according to a city news report.

"Water contact may cause illness. Standard health precautions advise bathers to refrain from entering waters for at least 72 hours after a storm event. Bacterial sampling of the lake is ongoing, with laboratory results posted on the , when they become available," the news report states.

"High storm water flow transports storm debris into the lake. Partially floating storm debris includes logs, tree branches, brush, tires and assorted household goods. Floating storm debris is a potential hazard for boats traveling on the lake. The substantial rise in the water level has submerged a number of potential boating hazards, including land masses (peninsulas) and fencing," the report states.

According to the report, city maintenance crews have set "Hazard Area" and "Shallow Area" buoys in the general location of known submerged obstacles. However, several unknown hazards may exist. Boaters are warned to travel at a slow rate of speed and stay a safe distance away from hazard and shallow area buoys.