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Evanston
Water Temperature in Evanston in Lake Michigan: Current and Forecast
On this page, you will find comprehensive information about the water temperature in Evanston 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 Evanston
48°F
TODAY
49°F
YESTERDAY
46°F
A WEEK AGO
As of today, the minimum water temperature in Evanston ranges from 47°F (8°C) to 50°F (10°C). This is still cool water, suitable only for experienced swimmers or those accustomed to cold water. Swimming in such conditions is possible, but not recommended for prolonged periods. Extra caution should be taken during extended exposure, as the cold water can cause heat loss and lead to hypothermia. For added comfort, special clothing can be used.
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 Evanston Over the Last 30 Days
Today the water temperature in Evanston is higher than the same day in previous years. The water temperature range here in March is from 28°F to 48°F. The water temperature is trending upward, and it has increased both over the past 30 days and the past week.
The forecasted water temperature values for Evanston 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 22 | 46°F | 38°F | |
| Mar 23 | 47°F | 38°F | |
| Mar 24 | 46°F | 38°F | |
| Mar 25 | 47°F | 38°F | |
| Mar 26 | 47°F | 38°F | |
| Mar 27 | 49°F | 38°F | |
| Mar 28 | 49°F | 38°F | |
| Mar 29 | 48°F | 38°F | |
| Mar 30 | 38°F | 47°F | |
| Mar 31 | 38°F | 47°F | |
| Apr 1 | 41°F | 46°F | |
| Apr 2 | 41°F | 46°F | |
| Apr 3 | 41°F | 46°F | |
| Apr 4 | 41°F | 45°F | |
| Apr 5 | 41°F | 45°F | |
| Apr 6 | 41°F | 45°F |
Water Temperature Ranges in Evanston 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 | 38°F | 48°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 |
|---|---|---|
| 61°F | 69°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 Evanston
Known Beaches in the Area of Evanston?
Evanston South Beach
Evanston South Beach is a 4-stars sandy beach, located in a 2 km (1 miles) radius of Evanston. 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.
Evanston Beach
Evanston Beach is a 3-stars sandy beach, located in a 2 km (1 miles) radius of Evanston. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are cafés.
Elliott Park
Elliott Park is a 4-stars sandy beach, located in a 2 km (1 miles) radius of Evanston. There are lifeguards on the beach. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are cafés.
Burnham Shores Park
Burnham Shores Park is a 3-stars sandy beach, located in a 2 km (1 miles) radius of Evanston. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are cafés.
Northwestern University Beach
Northwestern University Beach is a 4-stars sandy beach, located in a 2 km (1 miles) radius of Evanston. 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.
Greenwood Beach
Greenwood Beach is a 5-stars sandy beach, located in a 2 km (1 miles) radius of Evanston. There are lifeguards on the beach. There is parking. There are restrooms. Snorkeling is possible. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Centennial Dog Beach
Centennial Dog Beach is a 2-stars sandy beach, located in a 2 km (1 miles) radius of Evanston. There is parking. There are restrooms.
Clark Street Beach
Clark Street Beach is a 4-stars sandy beach, located in a 2 km (1 miles) radius of Evanston. 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.
Lee Street Beach
Lee Street Beach is a 3-stars sandy beach, located in a 2 km (1 miles) radius of Evanston. 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.
Fargo Beach
Fargo Beach is a 2-stars sandy beach, located in a 3 km (2 miles) radius of Evanston. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Juneway Terrace Park Beach
Juneway Terrace Park Beach is a 3-stars sandy beach, located in a 3 km (2 miles) radius of Evanston. There is parking. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Howard Street Park Beach
Howard Street Park Beach is a 3-stars sandy beach, located in a 3 km (2 miles) radius of Evanston. There is parking. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Lighthouse Beach
Lighthouse Beach is a 1-stars sandy beach, located in a 3 km (2 miles) radius of Evanston.
Juneway Beach
Juneway Beach is a 3-stars sandy beach, located in a 3 km (2 miles) radius of Evanston. There are lifeguards on the beach. There is parking. There are shops. There are cafés. Juneway Beach is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish.
Rogers Avenue Park Beach
Rogers Avenue Park Beach is a 3-stars sandy beach, located in a 3 km (2 miles) radius of Evanston. There is parking. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Gillson Park Beach
Gillson Park Beach is a 4-stars sandy beach, located in a 4 km (2 miles) radius of Evanston. 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.
Jarvis Beach
Jarvis Beach is a 2-stars pebble beach, located in a 4 km (2 miles) radius of Evanston. There is parking. There are shops. There are cafés.
Gillson Park Dog Beach
Gillson Park Dog Beach is a 3-stars sandy beach, located in a 4 km (2 miles) radius of Evanston. There is parking. There are restrooms. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Leone Beach
Leone Beach is a 4-stars sandy beach, located in a 4 km (2 miles) radius of Evanston. 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.
Gillson Park
Gillson Park is a 5-stars sandy beach, located in a 4 km (2 miles) radius of Evanston. There are lifeguards on the beach. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are shops. There are cafés. Gillson Park is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish. Snorkeling is possible.
Evanston Weather
MARCH 30
34°F / 41°F
slight snow showerrain: 67% | wind: 17 mph
MARCH 31
34°F / 37°F
light drizzlerain: 67% | wind: 21 mph
APRIL 1
30°F / 39°F
overcastrain: 13% | wind: 17 mph
APRIL 2
37°F / 45°F
moderate drizzlerain: 63% | wind: 16 mph
Water Temperature in Evanston: General Trends and Swimming Opportunities
In Evanston, Illinois, Lake Michigan serves as a major focal point for recreation, offering beautiful beaches and opportunities for swimming during the warmer months. The water temperature in Lake Michigan can vary significantly depending on the season. During the summer months, the temperature generally ranges from 70°F to 75°F (21°C to 24°C), making it comfortable for swimming. As the water warms up in the late spring and early summer, the beaches in Evanston become popular spots for locals and visitors looking to enjoy the water.
Swimming in Lake Michigan near Evanston is a common activity, particularly at the city's public beaches, such as Lighthouse Beach and Clark Street Beach. However, the water quality can vary throughout the season, especially after heavy rains, so it's important to stay updated on water safety conditions. Lifeguards are typically on duty at the beaches during peak swimming season, providing safety and ensuring that visitors can enjoy the water with peace of mind.
In the cooler months, particularly in the fall and winter, the water temperature in Lake Michigan drops significantly, ranging from 40°F to 50°F (4°C to 10°C). Swimming is not common during this time, as the water becomes much too cold for most swimmers. Despite this, the lake remains a beautiful natural feature, attracting visitors for walks along the shoreline, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities. Swimming enthusiasts typically return to Evanston's beaches when the water warms up again in the spring and summer.
Geographical Location of Evanston
Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions About Evanston and its Water Temperatures
What is the current water temperature in Evanston?
The water temperature today in Evanston is 48°F (8.8°C).
What is the water temperature in Evanston during the summer months?
The average water temperature in Evanston 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 Evanston in May?
The average water temperature in Evanston in May ranges from 39°F to 57°F (4°C to 14°C).
What is the water temperature in Evanston in September?
The average water temperature in Evanston 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 Evanston, and what are the available options for doing so?
Yes, it is possible to swim in Lake Michigan in Evanston at designated public beaches. You can visit beaches like Lighthouse Beach, Lee Street Beach, or Clark Street Beach, which are open during summer months.