Summer swimming? Remember to check the water quality.

Melbourne could be in for a hot but wetter than normal summer and EPA Victoria wants swimmers to remember the importance of water quality.

The long range Bureau of Meteorology forecast for this summer is for likely median rainfall (with a 50% chance of above median rainfall) and a high chance of exceeding median maximum air temperature.

“The conditions could make a dip in the bay enticing but could also increase the risk of getting sick because of poorer water quality,” said EPA Chief Environmental Scientist Dr Jen Martin.

“Heavy rain washes pollutants from our streets and footpaths through the stormwater drain system to our creeks and waterways, ultimately ending up in the bay. Water pollution after rain might aggravate skin conditions or even cause gastro. Given time, it dilutes and water quality improves.”

Dr Martin says gastroenteritis and respiratory infections are common illnesses you can get from swimming in polluted water. Most at risk of getting sick are children, older people and people with vulnerable immune systems.

“After heavy rain, it’s a good idea to stay out of the water for 24 to 48 hours. Don’t swim near drain or river outlets and if the water appears murky or smells, best to head to the pool.”

This summer, Beach Report users will get to use the new EPA Check Air and Water Quality map. The map includes Beach Report and Yarra Watch forecasts, new map-based water quality alerts based on pollution reports and other notifications, as well as air quality information. https://www.epa.vic.gov.au/check-air-and-water-quality

To navigate to Port Phillip Bay beaches, users can de-select the air button and then zoom in using their fingers. Alternatively, enter a location in the search field, or use the ‘my location’ button in the search field.

“Beaches with the best water quality forecasts are generally dominated by the Mornington Peninsula and Geelong/Bellarine Peninsula, followed by Melbourne beaches like Sandringham and Black Rock Beach which are located away from the mouths of major waterways," said Dr Martin.

“These beaches are less likely to be impacted by stormwater pollution after rain.

“Generally, water quality in the bay is good, but it pays to swim between the flags, slip, slop, slap, check EPA Beach Report and look for signage at your local Surf Life Saving Club.”

Beach users can also subscribe to receive a SMS if Beach Report forecasts Poor water quality for their beach - https://www.epa.vic.gov.au/check-air-and-water-quality?type=water%2Cincident