Nine beaches in Ocean County have issued advisories after water testing shows high levels of bacteria in the water.

The beaches include Maxon and River beaches in Point Pleasant Borough; Beachwood Beach West in Beachwood; and Reese and Brooklyn beaches in Lavallette. 

On Long Beach Island, they include Leeward Street Beach in Beach Haven; Stockton Beach in Long Beach Township; the 14th Street Bay Front Beach in Ship Bottom; and the 16th Avenue Bay Front Beach in Surf City.

The advisories mean beach visitors must swim at their own risk.

Wednesday's heavy rains could make the conditions worse, which may prompt beach closures.