2 Vermont beaches closed due to E. coli bacteria

BURLINGTON, Vt. (AP) — Burlington has closed two beaches to swimming and fishing due to high levels of E. coli bacteria in nearby sections of Lake Champlain.

The Burlington Free press reports that Blodgett and Blanchard beaches were closed Wednesday afternoon and will remain closed until further notice. Water samples were taken Tuesday and the results received Wednesday show levels that warranted the closures.

The city’s Department of Public Works said the high levels of E. coli bacteria were likely caused after sewage went into the lake following a large rain storm swept across Vermont Monday evening. Further testing will determine whether the sewage from the storm was the reason behind the levels.

Storm-related overflows on June 21 and May 31 also led to beach closures in the city.