CLEARWATER, Fla. — In the wake of Hurricane Idalia's storm surge, portions of Pier 60 have been damaged.

Due to concerns about structural integrity, a section of the pier will remain closed to the public until further notice.

The bait shop and walkway that leads to the fishing area are safe and will remain open, according to a news release. Fishing will not be allowed on the walkway.

"Our top priority is ensuring this historic landmark is safe for residents and visitors to return to," said Art Kader, the county's parks and recreation director.

A professional dive team will conduct an inspection of the pilings in the coming days.

That evaluation will help determine the necessary repairs and restoration efforts required to reopen the fishing pier.

Meanwhile, the Florida Department of Health in Pinellas County has issued a public health advisory for Clearwater Beach, Mandalay Park and Sand Key due to high bacteria levels. This should be considered a potential risk to the bathing public, and swimming is not recommended.

Samples taken were above the threshold for enterococci bacteria. The beaches have been resampled and results are pending.

When resampling indicates that the water is within the satisfactory range, the advisory will be lifted.