What weather event is cited as a most significant contributor to spikes in fecal indicator bacteria counts across Florida beaches?
Answer
Heavy rainfall
Heavy rainfall events are identified as primary drivers for sharp increases in fecal indicator bacteria counts along Florida's coastline. When intense storms occur, the sheer volume of water overwhelms existing infrastructure, including aging stormwater systems and potentially compromised septic systems. This overwhelming runoff acts as a transport mechanism, washing contaminants such as pet waste and untreated sewage directly into coastal waters, causing immediate spikes in bacterial readings that surpass safety thresholds.
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