Runners around Minneapolis griped on social media this week wondering why their relied-upon water fountains weren't working.

Turns out, winter is to blame.

"Will the drinking fountains be turned on soon along West River Road? I count on those during my long runs!," one Minneapolis runner asked.

The Park and Recreation Board responded, saying many fountains were damaged this winter and contractors were working to get them fixed as soon as possible.

The Park Board advised runners to carry their own water for now.

Winter isn't the only culprit. Extreme spring rains are blamed for delaying the Sandcastle Terrace at Lake Nokomis to July. The Park Board was set to open a new terrace in June, including covered seating and reconstructed walking paths.

Park Board officials said in a construction update that "the lake is very high and this affects construction, due to the project's proximity to the lake."

Nonetheless, Sandcastle remains open during construction.

Photo:Marlin Levison, Star Tribune