SAN PEDRO (CBS) — A sewage spill forced the closure of Inner Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro Wednesday.

The Los Angeles County Health Department is encouraging swimmers to stay out of the water until at least 5 p.m. Thursday while bacteria levels are tested.

“Our first priority is to protect the health and safety of the people who visit the beach and water areas. Once we determine bacteria levels in the water have returned to normal, we will remove the beach advisory,” said Jonathan E. Fielding, MD, MPH, Director of Public Health and County Health Officer.

The Los Angeles City Department of Parks and Recreation is overseeing repairs to the sewer line.