County Rain Advisory Spans Coast as UC San Diego Health Expands Outpatient Cancer Care

ByBrian “Weence” Bateman

San Diego, CA – March 25, 2026 – A county rain advisory is in effect along the coast, as UCSD adds outpatient cancer capacity and new 2026 coverage data show 148,620 insured loc…

San Diego County health officials are urging residents to avoid ocean contact for 72 hours after recent rainfall, citing the risk of elevated bacteria levels from stormwater runoff. The advisory comes as UC San Diego Health continues expanding specialty cancer services into outpatient settings and new figures show how many local residents secured marketplace coverage for 2026.

Rain Advisory Covers Beaches and Bays

The county Department of Environmental Health and Quality issued a general rain advisory covering the coastline from San Onofre State Beach to Border Field State Park. The notice also includes Mission Bay and San Diego Bay.

Officials warn that bacteria levels in ocean water can rise after storms as runoff flows through storm drains, creeks, rivers and lagoon outlets into nearshore waters. Swimming, surfing and diving are discouraged for 72 hours following measurable rainfall, especially near runoff outlets. The county updates beach and bay status listings online and posts signs when advisories or closures are in place.

UC San Diego Health Adds Outpatient Oncology Capacity

UC San Diego Health is continuing a shift toward delivering complex cancer care in outpatient settings, highlighted by the McGrath Outpatient Pavilion on the Hillcrest campus. The 250,000-square-foot facility is designed to bring multidisciplinary oncology clinics together with imaging, infusion and pharmacy services in one location.

The health system has also described partnerships aimed at extending oncology services, including care coordination and clinical trial access, beyond its main campuses into a broader regional network. The approach is intended to make recurring appointments and follow-up care more streamlined for patients who might otherwise need to navigate multiple hospital buildings.

148,620 San Diegans Enrolled Through Covered California

Covered California reported that 148,620 San Diego County residents selected or renewed marketplace coverage for 2026. Statewide, 1,927,371 people enrolled during the open enrollment period.

The update follows the expiration of enhanced federal premium assistance. California is funding additional state subsidies for some lower-income enrollees. Covered California said residents who missed the enrollment deadline may still qualify for a special enrollment period after certain life events, such as losing job-based coverage, getting married or having a child.

What Residents Should Know

After rainfall, avoid ocean water contact for at least 72 hours and check current beach advisories before entering the water. Patients receiving specialty care may ask providers whether appointments are available at outpatient pavilion or satellite locations. Residents who need to adjust or obtain coverage can review special enrollment eligibility rules through Covered California.

If you have urgent symptoms, seek medical care. For general questions, talk with a licensed clinician.

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Brian “Weence” Bateman is a health and medical writer who covers public health updates, healthcare policy, and medical developments affecting communities across the United States. He works closely with dentists and healthcare providers and focuses on making complex medical information clear, accurate, and useful for everyday readers.