Even though temperatures in part of Massachusetts will feel like 110 degrees Monday, not all public pools are open yet.
An extreme heat warning is in effect for Eastern and Central Massachusetts through 8 p.m. Tuesday, with temperatures expected to feel as high as 110 degrees. Western Massachusetts is under a heat advisory during the same time period, where temperatures could feel up to 104 degrees.
While there are cooling centers, libraries and splash pads open, some public pools won’t be opening until July.
Springfield won’t be opening pools any earlier than July due to staffing issues.
“With pools, it’s always difficult when the heat wave comes early, because we have to make sure they’re all properly staffed up,” Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno told Western Mass News. “If we can do it earlier, we’ll do it earlier because they have to be properly prepped, and also have the proper man and woman power there for lifeguards.”
Lifeguard shortages of plagued the U.S. years. Communities have attempted to attract new workers by increasing wages and offering up to $1,000 in bonuses.
Boston Centers for Youth & Families Clougherty pool will open on Saturday, while multiple others won’t open until July.
However, 24 Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) pools opened across the state Saturday, according to CBS.
“It’s going to be a hot week coming up and we’re excited to be able to bring some cooling opportunities to the community. And of course to make that happen in a safe manner we’ve hired over 580 lifeguards to get through this summer season and we’re still looking for about another 50 more,” DCR’s Director of Pool and Waterfront Safety Shawn DeRosa told the news station.
Worcester also just opened its pools.
Over the weekend two pools in Worcester opened for the season. The pools will remain open until August 17.
Click here for the full list of pools in Springfield, Worcester and Boston.
