The Environmental Protection Department has rated water quality at 13 beaches 'good' and 19 'fair' for this weekend.

Compared with last week, water quality at Clear Water Bay Second, Shek O and Stanley Main Beaches rose from fair to good, and Golden Beach rose from poor to fair.

The department said the changes are generally within the normal range of fluctuation of the bacteriological water quality of the beaches.

Seven gazetted beaches - Anglers', Approach, Ting Kau, Casam, Gemini, Hoi Mei Wan and Lido - are closed to swimmers year-round because of poor water quality.

Many beaches are likely to be more polluted than their grades suggest during and after heavy rain. Bathers should avoid swimming at beaches for up to three days after a storm or heavy rainfall.

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