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Water Temperature in Chicago in Lake Michigan: Current and Forecast
On this page, you will find comprehensive information about the water temperature in Chicago in Lake Michigan, including current readings, historical data and trends, monthly averages, as well as weather forecasts and upcoming temperature predictions. We find every spot where you can swim and tell you what the water temperature is there today and throughout the year.
Current Water Temperature in Chicago
33°F
TODAY
33°F
YESTERDAY
35°F
A WEEK AGO
As of today, the minimum water temperature in Chicago ranges less than 41°F (5°C). Such water is extremely cold and not recommended for swimming without proper preparation. In these conditions, the risk of hypothermia is very high, and prolonged exposure to the water can be hazardous to your health. If you decide to swim, it is important to have the appropriate gear, such as a wetsuit. Typically, only experienced swimmers or those who practice winter swimming venture into such waters.
It is important to note that these swimming tips and recommendations apply only in good weather. When the air temperature is below 68°F (20°C), and sometimes even below 77°F (25°C), swimming can be unpleasant even with relatively high water temperatures.
Analysis, Historical Data, and Forecast of Water Temperature
Water Temperature Chart for Lake Michigan in Chicago Over the Last 30 Days
Today the water temperature in Chicago is lower than the same day in previous years. The water temperature range here in February is from 28°F to 39°F. The water temperature has decreased over the past 7 days but has increased over the past month.
The forecasted water temperature values for Chicago are presented in the table below.
The actual water temperature values near the shore may differ by a few degrees from the stated values. For the development of the forecast, we use our own mathematical model that takes into account the current water temperature changes, historical data, and key weather trends, including wind strength and direction, and air temperature in each specific region.
Table of Daily Water Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 15 | 35°F | 34°F | |
| Feb 16 | 35°F | 34°F | |
| Feb 17 | 35°F | 34°F | |
| Feb 18 | 33°F | 34°F | |
| Feb 19 | 33°F | 34°F | |
| Feb 20 | 33°F | 34°F | |
| Feb 21 | 33°F | 34°F | |
| Feb 22 | 33°F | 34°F | |
| Feb 23 | 34°F | 33°F | |
| Feb 24 | 34°F | 33°F | |
| Feb 25 | 34°F | 33°F | |
| Feb 26 | 34°F | 33°F | |
| Feb 27 | 34°F | 33°F | |
| Feb 28 | 34°F | 33°F | |
| Mar 1 | 35°F | 33°F | |
| Mar 2 | 35°F | 33°F |
Water Temperature Ranges in Chicago by Month
January
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 34°F | 38°F | 43°F |
February
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 28°F | 34°F | 39°F |
March
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 28°F | 35°F | 41°F |
April
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 36°F | 41°F | 46°F |
May
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 39°F | 48°F | 57°F |
June
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 55°F | 63°F | 70°F |
July
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 59°F | 68°F | 77°F |
August
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 64°F | 71°F | 77°F |
September
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 61°F | 69°F | 77°F |
October
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 50°F | 59°F | 68°F |
November
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 41°F | 50°F | 59°F |
December
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 34°F | 41°F | 48°F |
Monthly Water Temperature Histogram for Lake Michigan in Chicago
Known Beaches in the Area of Chicago?
12th Street Beach
12th Street Beach is a 5-stars sandy beach, located in a 4 km (2 miles) radius of Chicago. There are lifeguards on the beach. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are cafés. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
31st Street Beach
31st Street Beach is a 5-stars sandy beach, located in a 4 km (2 miles) radius of Chicago. There are lifeguards on the beach. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are cafés. It is suitable for surfing. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Ohio Street Beach
Ohio Street Beach is a 5-stars sandy beach, located in a 6 km (4 miles) radius of Chicago. There are lifeguards on the beach. There is parking. There are restrooms. It is suitable for surfing. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Oak Street Beach
Oak Street Beach is a 4-stars sandy beach, located in a 6 km (4 miles) radius of Chicago. There are lifeguards on the beach. There are restrooms. There are cafés. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Oakwood Beach
Oakwood Beach is a 4-stars sandy beach, located in a 6 km (4 miles) radius of Chicago. There are lifeguards on the beach. There is parking. There are restrooms. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
49th Street Beach
49th Street Beach is a 1-stars sandy beach, located in a 7 km (4 miles) radius of Chicago.
North Shore Avenue Beach
North Shore Avenue Beach is a 5-stars sandy beach, located in a 7 km (4 miles) radius of Chicago. There are lifeguards on the beach. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are cafés. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Pratt Blvd And Park Beach
Pratt Blvd And Park Beach is a 3-stars sandy beach, located in a 7 km (4 miles) radius of Chicago. There are lifeguards on the beach. There is parking. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Forty-Ninth Street Beach
Forty-Ninth Street Beach is a 1-stars sandy beach, located in a 7 km (4 miles) radius of Chicago.
Humboldt Lagoon - Humboldt Park
Humboldt Lagoon - Humboldt Park is a 4-stars sandy beach, located in a 7 km (4 miles) radius of Chicago. There are lifeguards on the beach. There is parking. There are restrooms. Humboldt Lagoon - Humboldt Park is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
North Avenue Beach
North Avenue Beach is a 5-stars sandy beach, located in a 7 km (4 miles) radius of Chicago. There are lifeguards on the beach. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are cafés. Snorkeling is possible. It is suitable for surfing. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Humboldt
Humboldt is a 4-stars sandy beach, located in a 8 km (5 miles) radius of Chicago. There are lifeguards on the beach. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are shops. There are cafés. Humboldt is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish.
Fullerton Beach
Fullerton Beach is a 3-stars sandy beach, located in a 9 km (6 miles) radius of Chicago. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are cafés. Fullerton Beach is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish.
57th Street Beach
57th Street Beach is a 5-stars sandy beach, located in a 9 km (6 miles) radius of Chicago. There are lifeguards on the beach. There is parking. There are restrooms. It is suitable for surfing. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
63rd Beach Park
63rd Beach Park is a 4-stars sandy beach, located in a 10 km (6 miles) radius of Chicago. There are lifeguards on the beach. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are cafés.
63rd Street Beach
63rd Street Beach is a 4-stars sandy beach, located in a 10 km (6 miles) radius of Chicago. There are lifeguards on the beach. There is parking. There are restrooms. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Chicago Weather
FEBRUARY 23
23°F / 39°F
overcastrain: 1% | wind: 11 mph
FEBRUARY 24
32°F / 46°F
overcastrain: 6% | wind: 15 mph
FEBRUARY 25
34°F / 41°F
overcastrain: 23% | wind: 9 mph
FEBRUARY 26
32°F / 45°F
light drizzlerain: 44% | wind: 14 mph
FEBRUARY 27
28°F / 39°F
overcastrain: 44% | wind: 14 mph
Water Temperature in Chicago: General Trends and Swimming Opportunities
In Chicago, the water of Lake Michigan can vary significantly in temperature throughout the year, but it tends to be cooler compared to many other popular beach destinations. During the summer months, lake water temperatures typically range from 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C), providing a refreshing option for swimming, especially on hot days. However, the temperature can drop significantly during the spring and fall, dipping as low as 40°F to 50°F (4°C to 10°C), making swimming less inviting unless you're prepared for much colder water.
Swimming in Lake Michigan in Chicago is a popular activity during the summer, especially along the city's many beaches, such as North Avenue Beach and Oak Street Beach. These spots are well-maintained and offer amenities like lifeguards, restrooms, and concessions. While the water can be chilly, especially in the early summer, many locals and visitors still take a dip to cool off. The lake's clear water and sandy shores make it a picturesque location for swimming and sunbathing.
The city also offers some precautions for safety, as the lake's water can be subject to currents and waves. The beaches typically have lifeguards on duty, and it's important to swim in designated areas to avoid strong currents that can sometimes make swimming more dangerous. Despite the cooler water, Chicago's Lake Michigan offers a refreshing and scenic option for those looking to enjoy a summer swim.
Geographical Location of Chicago
Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicago and its Water Temperatures
What is the current water temperature in Chicago?
The water temperature today in Chicago is 33°F (0.8°C).
What is the water temperature in Chicago during the summer months?
The average water temperature in Chicago during the summer months is typically between 63°F to 71°F (17°C to 22°C), and it can reach up to 77°F (25°C) at its warmest. However, in some years, the temperature may exceed this range.
What is the water temperature in Chicago in May?
The average water temperature in Chicago in May ranges from 39°F to 57°F (4°C to 14°C).
What is the water temperature in Chicago in September?
The average water temperature in Chicago in September is typically between 61°F to 77°F (16°C to 25°C).
Is it possible to swim in the Lake Michigan in Chicago, and what are the available options for doing so?
Yes, it is possible to swim in Lake Michigan in Chicago, with numerous public beaches along the city's coastline. Options include the popular Ohio Street Beach, North Avenue Beach, and the 31st Street Beach.