Water quality at 27 beaches has been rated 'good' and six 'fair' for this weekend by the Environmental Protection Department. Due to large waves, red flags were hoisted at Shek O and Lower Cheung Sha Beaches today.

Compared with last week's gradings, Big Wave Bay, Chung Hom Kok, Kiu Tsui and Discovery Bay Beaches have been upgraded to 'good', while Cafeteria Old Beach was lowered to 'fair'.

Seven beaches - Anglers', Approach, Ting Kau, Casam, Gemini, Hoi Mei Wan and Lido - are closed to swimmers year round because of poor water quality. The public is advised not to swim at these closed beaches.

As beaches are likely to be more polluted than their grades suggest during and after periods of heavy rain, bathers should avoid swimming at beaches for up to three days.

For the latest beach water quality gradings, click here or call the beach hotline, 2511 6666.