California
Sewage seeps into California beach city from Mexico, upending residents’ lives: “Akin to being trapped in a portable toilet”

California resident Shannon Johnson lives a few blocks from Imperial Beach’s turquoise water and waves of “perfect little curls” — but Johnson and her two young children haven’t stepped foot on the sand in a year.
“Every time we go by the beach they’re asking, ‘Is it going to be clean? When are they going to fix it?’” said Johnson, 45, a former activist with the Surfrider Foundation, who has been living in Imperial Beach, a small coastal city of 26,000 people 20 minutes from San Diego, since 2010.
Heavy metals, toxic chemicals and bacteria including E. coli have been detected in the water, according to a San Diego State University report released last month. Researchers called the contamination “a public health crisis.” It has resulted in over 700 consecutive days of beach closures, leaving residents like Johnson feeling confined indoors with no end in sight.
Over the last five years, over 100 billion gallons of untreated sewage have flowed through Mexico’s Tijuana River and into the Pacific Ocean at the shores of the seaside town, contaminating the air, water and soil and posing environmental and public health hazards.
In addition to concerns about exposure to contaminants, another factor stemming from the sewage is causing residents to stay inside: “It’s the worst smell. It gets into your lungs. It gets into your clothes. It’s disgusting,” Johnson said.
Aging sewage plants and an “unbearable stink”
The sewage issue isn’t new— concerns about contamination of the Tijuana River date at least to the 1930’s — but the problem has worsened over the years. [“60 Minutes” reported on the problem in 2020 — watch more in the video player above.]
At the crux of it is two aging wastewater plants on either side of the U.S.-Mexico border: the South Bay International Wastewater Treatment Plant and the San Antonio de los Buenos Wastewater Treatment Plant. The former, situated in San Diego County, was constructed in the late 1990s to accommodate the influx of sewage from the growing population in Baja California, Mexico.
“Dangerous pathogens and chemicals in contaminated waters pose a spectrum of short and long-term health risks, spanning gastrointestinal issues to neurological disorders,” according to the SDSU report.
The plant has become overwhelmed as the population increased to over 3 million, as of 2020, and is ill-equipped to handle extreme weather events like Hurricane Hilary in 2023, which exacerbated existing issues with the plant’s infrastructure. On Jan. 11, Mexico marked the start of its rehabilitation efforts at the San Antonio de los Buenos Wastewater Treatment Plant in Tijuana, which releases millions of gallons of sewage a day into the Pacific Ocean. The country agreed to invest $33 million into replacing the decrepit plant and has also contributed $50 million toward the South Bay International Wastewater Treatment Plant.
In 2022, $300 million in federal funding was designated towards rehabilitating the plant, inspiring optimism among some residents. Marvel Harrison, 67, a psychologist who moved to Imperial Beach in 2020 with her retired husband, said they felt relieved when they learned about the funding.
But since then, the plant has racked up $150 million in repairs, prolonging expansion efforts and prompting California Gov. Gavin Newsom to ask Congress for an additional $310 million.
For Harrison and her husband, their future in Imperial Beach hinges on a timely solution. In 2015, the couple began the process of building their home on the water, investing in pricey features like custom windows to incorporate an indoor-outdoor living space. Now, nearly a decade later, the windows remain shut and they contemplate moving.
“I find myself looking at other places we might be able to live. And that’s really disheartening given that this is where and how we wanted to be in retirement,” she said, noting that being in their sixties, “it’s not like we can wait.”
Johnson has been faced with a similar choice. Despite her husband’s family having roots in Imperial Beach stretching back to the 1950s, she said they often look at other options. “You live here to be outside, and we can’t really go outside and feel comfortable and safe,” she said.
In a collection of letters from community members compiled by Harrison calling on elected officials to take action, one resident described the stink as “akin to being trapped in a portable toilet” — a smell so strong it wakes you up at night.
Potential health impacts reach beyond the stench
But the air carries more than just a stench. A recent study found evidence of coastal water pollution from the Tijuana River in sea spray aerosol capable of potentially diffusing far enough to reach places like schools and homes that wouldn’t otherwise be touched by the contamination. The implications of contamination by air are not yet known and need further study, according to the SDSU report, leaving some members of the community grappling for answers.
Johnson, who said she has health issues and has had two unexplained pulmonary embolisms, worries about whether the environment could be a contributing factor. “In the back of my mind, I’m like, does that have something to do with the air that I’m breathing?”
Her children, ages 9 and 10, attend elementary school near the river valley, where the smell can be especially strong. “They’re like, ‘Why is it so smelly? Is it safe?’” Johnson said. “I’m like, yeah, I guess so. What am I supposed to tell them?”
In some cases, residents’ concerns have led to lifestyle changes beyond being unable to enjoy the beach.
Harrison, who said her community is in a state of “chronic angst,” thinks twice before inviting guests to stay at her house out of concern for potential health impacts. She said sewage is a constant topic of conversation within her social circles.
“As much as the stink permeates the air, the topic permeates the stress and anxiety of everybody’s life here,” she said.
Another reminder of the sewage’s impact is its effect on wildlife. Bottlenose dolphins, increasingly found stranded in San Diego, are believed to have died from sepsis caused by a bacteria sometimes found in contaminated water. According to the SDSU report, the dolphins “serve as sentinels for the risk of possible human exposures to dangerous bacteria.”
Among the more pressing health threats to emerge from the sewage, according to the report, are human and livestock diseases from Mexico that have been eradicated in California, and antibiotic-resistant pathogens.
“There is a potential for both short- and long-term health risks associated with exposure, which really underscores the need for more comprehensive monitoring and research,” Dr. Paula Stigler Granados, one of the report’s lead authors, said in a recent news conference.
Imperial Beach has been hit by a wave of complications from the sewage. But for Johnson, the goal is simple: “I just want to see this resolved so that my kids can go back to the way it’s supposed to be and be able to enjoy the beach.”

California
Luxury hotel bans children at some California locations

Alila Marea Beach Resort in Encinitas, California. (Hyatt Hotels Corporation)
ST. HELENA, Calif. – An upscale luxury hotel brand has made some of its California locations kid-free. Alila Hotels is part of the Hyatt family and has three locations in California, including one in the Bay Area in St. Helena.
What we know:
The Napa Valley site has in place an adult-only policy, banning anyone under the age of 18 from staying at the resort.
The hotel boasts being in the heart of Wine Country, offering the best of the region.
“Alila Napa Valley is a journey of epicurean discovery in a scenic landscape rich with culture and history. Here, expansive vineyard views and golden sunsets showcase the region’s unspoiled beauty,” the hotel’s website said.
The hotel also notes, “Alila Napa Valley is an adult-only hotel (18+).”
It’s unclear how long the no-children policy has been in place.
But the Alila’s Marea Beach location in Encinitas, in San Diego County, recently adopted the rule, making the change to becoming an “adult-only” resort last month.
On its website, the hotel wrote, “This transition allows us to provide a serene and tranquil environment tailored to adult travelers seeking relaxation, exploration and a peaceful stay by the beach .”
SEE ALSO: Man claims airline forced him to sit next to dead woman for hours on flight
Policy shift
Alila also has a third California location in Big Sur. The resort, which previously had an adult-only policy in place, said it recently made a shift in its rule, to allow children at its site, accommodating families with suites set aside that are more kid-friendly.
But Alila Ventana Big Sur also noted it does make sure guests know that the site may not be suited for children, explaining it has a clothing optional area that parents may not be comfortable with.
The property is situated on the rugged Pacific Coast, surrounded by nature and wildlife, which can also be a deterrent for families with young kids, Alila Ventana Big Sur said.
The hotel explained that for its guests considering bringing their children, it offers information about its nearby sister property, Carmel Valley Ranch, which has kids’ activities on site and a property geared toward a family atmosphere.
Pets allowed
At both the Encinitas and Big Sur properties, Alila does allow pets for a fee of $150 per dog.
The Napa Valley hotel does not allow pets.
Dig deeper:
There are questions about whether the adult-only rule violates any discrimination laws.
KTVU reached out to the California Civil Rights Department and asked about the lawfulness of Alila’s policy.
In an email, a spokesperson responded, “We’re generally unable to provide legal advice or analysis regarding specific applications of California’s civil rights laws,” but the agency went on to share a fact sheet on California’s Unruh Civil Rights Act which seeks to provide consumer discrimination protections by businesses.
Under the Unruh Act, California businesses, including hotels, are required to provide “full and equal accommodations, advantages, facilities, privileges or services” without discriminating based on more than a dozen criteria, including sex, race, disability, and immigration status.
The list did not include age as a “protected characteristic.”
An example of a violation of the Unruh Act would be if a hotel charged an extra service fee only to guests of a certain racial group, but not to other guests.
‘Reasonable’ service restrictions allowed
The law also noted that businesses are allowed to limit access to who can receive services, but there has to be a rational reason behind the restriction.
“A business may establish reasonable policies that are ‘rationally related to the services performed and the facilities provided,’” the Unruh Act fact sheet stated.
The example used is a rental car agency that refuses to rent vehicles to drivers under the age of 25.
KTVU reached out to Hyatt and Alila for an official response as to whether there were any concerns about violations stemming from the adult-only policy but had not heard back in time for the publication of this story.
Front desk representatives, who were not speaking in an official capacity, noted that from their experience, they had not heard of any complaints about the kid-free rule.
One airline is offering kid-free zones
European carrier Corendon Airlines has announced they are launching a ‘child-free zone’ on its route between Amsterdam and Curaçao. Travelers who pay an extra $48 can be seated with adults only.
California
Atmospheric river set to roll in, with threat of rain, snow, floods and mud, forecasters say

Don’t be fooled by the weekend’s warm temperatures, you’ll need your rain jacket again as forecasters are predicting an incoming cold front with moderate to heavy rains in Southern California. A storm is first expected to drench San Diego County on Monday night before an atmospheric river storm soaks the L.A. region midweek, posing a threat to burn scar areas.
Even though residents across the Los Angeles region should still have sunny skies Monday, there will be a 10-degree dip in temperatures to the low 60s and a 50% chance of showers Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service.
An atmospheric river is expected to arrive early Wednesday, bringing heavy precipitation along the coast of California through Thursday, with significant impacts to mountain areas as it moves east toward the end of the week.
Rain will first hit San Diego County on Monday night, potentially causing roadway ponding and leading to hazardous driving conditions and minor flooding in urban areas. Orange County and the Inland Empire are expected to receive less than an inch of rain from Monday night through Tuesday. Southern California deserts will also see some rain, likely less than a tenth of an inch, according to the National Weather Service. Forecasters say a second system, the atmospheric river, will follow, moving through the coastal basin and bringing about an inch of rain.
The heaviest downpour is expected to occur in mountain areas Wednesday afternoon into early Thursday, with a chance of roadway and flash flooding, mudslides and possible debris flows near recent burn scars.
Here’s how the atmospheric river will affect the coastal, valley and mountain areas of Southern California.
Coastal and valley communities
The coastal and valley communities can expect 1 to 2 inches of rainfall between Wednesday and Thursday.
During this time, there’s a 10% to 20% chance of thunderstorms with brief, heavy downpours that could cause significant roadway flooding, or debris flows in recent burn scars.
There is also a potential for peak wind gusts of 30 to 50 mph, possibly causing downed tree branches and power outages.
If you experience a power outage:
- Stay home. Streetlights may be out, and debris may be flying around.
- Avoid opening the fridge or freezer. Food can be safe for up to four hours even without power.
- Don’t light candles. It’s a fire hazard; use a battery-powered flashlight instead.
- Unplug electronics and appliances that aren’t plugged into a surge protector.
- Avoid using your phone and laptop if possible to conserve the batteries for emergencies.
Mountain and desert areas
Residents in mountain areas can expect 2 to 4 inches of rainfall and an inch for desert areas, as well as heavy snow in some locations.
The mountains have a higher chance of rainfall, meaning an elevated chance of significant flooding or debris flows near recent burn scars. Those that could be at risk include areas that burned in the Palisades, Hurst, Kenneth, Sunset and Eaton fires.
According to the National Weather Service, travel may become delayed or hazardous in certain areas due to the rainfall, mountain snow and gusty winds.
If you have to drive in the rain, officials from the Los Angeles Emergency Management Department advise the following:
- Slow down. Leave plenty of distance between your car and other cars on the road.
- Avoid driving through areas prone to flooding, and never bypass street barriers.
- Never attempt to drive through a flooded roadway or flowing stream.
Snow levels
Forecasters predict snow in mountain areas at elevations of 3,000 to 4,000 feet Wednesday, possibly dropping down to 2,500 feet on Thursday.
The San Bernardino and Riverside County mountains could see snow at around 6,000 feet elevation and 6,500 feet in the San Diego County mountains.
Heavy snow and strong winds, gusting from 40 to 60 mph, will probably have substantial impacts across the Sierra Nevada and Northern California.
Some highways may be impacted by snow Wednesday night through Friday morning, but especially Wednesday night into Thursday morning. They include:
- The 5 Freeway near Tejon Pass
- Highway 14 through the Antelope Valley foothills and near Acton
- Highway 33 north of Ojai
- Upper portions of Highway 154 in Santa Barbara County.
If you have to drive in the snow, Caltrans recommends you prepare:
- Check the roadway conditions including chain controls and road closures before you leave your residence or work site. You can do so by checking the Caltrans Quick Map online.
- Be sure you have a full tank of gas; it may be necessary to change your route or turn back during a bad storm.
- Build in some extra time to reach your destination. If there are storms or icy conditions, travel time can take longer.
California
Map: 4.1-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Near Malibu, California

Note: Map shows the area with a shake intensity of 3 or greater, which U.S.G.S. defines as “weak,” though the earthquake may be felt outside the areas shown. Source: U.S.G.S. The New York Times
A light, 4.1-magnitude earthquake struck in Southern California on Sunday, according to the United States Geological Survey.
The temblor happened at 1:03 p.m. Pacific time about seven miles southwest of Westlake Village, Calif., data from the agency shows.
U.S.G.S. data earlier reported that the magnitude was 4.2.
As seismologists review available data, they may revise the earthquake’s reported magnitude. Additional information collected about the earthquake may also prompt U.S.G.S. scientists to update the shake-severity map.
An aftershock is usually a smaller earthquake that follows a larger one in the same general area. Aftershocks are typically minor adjustments along the portion of a fault that slipped at the time of the initial earthquake.
Source: United States Geological Survey The New York Times
Aftershocks in the region
Quakes and aftershocks within 100 miles
Aftershocks can occur days, weeks or even years after the first earthquake. These events can be of equal or larger magnitude to the initial earthquake, and they can continue to affect already damaged locations.
When quakes and aftershocks occured
Source: United States Geological Survey | Notes: Shaking categories are based on the Modified Mercalli Intensity scale. When aftershock data is available, the corresponding maps and charts include earthquakes within 100 miles and seven days of the initial quake. All times above are Pacific time. Shake data is as of Sunday, March 9 at 4:08 p.m. Eastern. Aftershocks data is as of Sunday, March 9 at 7:18 p.m. Eastern.
Maps: Daylight (urban areas); MapLibre (map rendering); Natural Earth (roads, labels, terrain); Protomaps (map tiles)
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