(08/31/06) OCEAN GROVE ? Some nasty bacteria spoiled the day for hopeful beachgoers in Monmouth County Thursday.

High bacteria levels in the water resulted in a swimming ban at several beaches this week. Officials say bacteria-laden water from nearby lakes has made its way into the ocean thanks to large amounts of rainfall. Residents hoping to swim on the final day of August say they?re very disappointed in the closures, but they are glad officials are on top of the matter.

Many beachgoers are also keeping their eye on weather reports coming in from the southern United States. Tropical Storm Ernesto is working its way up the East Coast, which could cause severe wind and rain in New Jersey during part of the Labor Day weekend.