'No swimming' advisory lifted at North Myrtle Beach

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — Swimming at North Myrtle Beach is back open Friday after a section was under a temporary "no swimming" advisory, the South Carolina Department of Health of Environmental Control said.

The area officials focused on was at 16^th Avenue in North Myrtle Beach.

[LINK: SC Beach Access and Water Quality Guide]

“High bacteria levels have been detected in this section of beach and swimming is not advised until bacteria levels return to normal,” DHEC Pee Dee Environmental Affairs official Sean Torrens said Thursday.

[Tourists flocking to new island formed off Outer Banks]

According to Torrens, it was still safe to wade, collect shells and fish within the swimming advisory area.

"To guard against the possibility of swallowing the water, it's best to keep your head up and out of the water," Torrens said. "People with open cuts or other wounds should also avoid contact with the water."

DHEC staff removed temporary signs that were put up at the location.