St. Joe residents will have to wait a little longer to enjoy public swimming facilities. Because of cooler temperatures forecast this week, the City of St. Joseph announced it will delay opening the facilities until June 2.

They were originally scheduled to open this Saturday, May 27, but officials say they decided to wait until the water temperatures reach 70 degrees or more.

The water temperature at the Aquatic Park was 60 degrees at mid-morning Wednesday. Officials looked at the forecast, which call for daytime highs not expected to top the 70s this week, and for chilly overnight lows. They decided that it’s not likely they’ll achieve a comfortable and safe water temperature to allow for opening this weekend.

Officials point out that water temperatures at 70 degrees still feel cold, and could cause some problems. There is still some risk of hypothermia, cramps, blue lips, shivering, problems speaking, dizziness and nausea if swimming in cold water for prolonged periods of time, officials said.

The announcement also noted that the availability of lifeguards will impact the hours of operation at both Krug Pool and the Aquatic Park.

“The city does not, currently, have an adequate number of lifeguards to keep both facilities open during regularly scheduled hours of operation,” according to the announcement. “As a result, the operational hours of the Aquatic Park will be reduced Friday through Sunday, unless additional staffing can be secured.”

The facilities will open for the season on June 2. The Aquatic Park hours will be 11am-7pm Monday – Thursday, Noon-6pm Friday and Saturday, and 1-5pm on Sunday. Krug pool hours will be Monday, Wednesday and Friday from Noon-6pm.