MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) — A swimming beach at Lake Harriet is still closed because of E. Coli bacteria. And more beaches are being tested.

The Southeast Beach was closed Tuesday evening after officials said water testing indicated there were high levels of the bacteria. Authorities say that’s likely because of the recent heavy rains, but it’s still unusually early for a beach to be closed.

Debra Pilger, of the Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Department, said beach goers should keep certain things in mind this summer before heading into the water.

“Our advice is always to wait 24 hours after a half inch to an inch of rainfall to go into the beaches because of these bacteria issues,” she said. “People have to make their own decision on it.”

Pilger said they anticipate beach closures later in the summer because when it’s warmer, it’s easier for bacteria to grow.

She said they test the water at 12 area beaches once a week. They tested Lake Harriet’s water again on Wednesday and will know by Thursday at noon if they can reopen the beach.