Seasonal and spatial variation in the monitoring parameters of Gaza Beach during 2002–2003

Seawater pollution problems are gaining interest worldwide because of their public health impact and other issues. Levels of pollutants at Gaza Beach determined the only recreational area for the inhabitants of Gaza were recently determined and shown to be high. Five bathing sites in the Middle Camps area along the Gaza Strip coastal area were monitored for 1 year (fortnightly). Seawater samples were subjected to microbiological analysis (fecal coliforms and fecal streptococci) and physiochemical analysis (water temperature, pH, electroconductivity, dissolved oxygen (DO), biochemical oxygen demand, total, Kjeldahlnitrogen, and ammonia). Results revealed seasonal and locational variation in all of the parameters studied. The highest levels of pollution were detected during winter, especially after a rainfall or after a discharge from Wadi Gaza. Locations associated with sewage discharge had the highest fecal indicator levels. Statistical analysis of the data demonstrated significant linear correlations between several parameters (e.g., DO and biochemical oxygen demand, biochemical oxygen demand and fecal coliforms, biochemical oxygen demand and fecal streptococci).