Alkali Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Alkali Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Alkali Lake today is 16.3°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 60°F (15°C) to 65°F (18°C). The water is comfortable for most people, making it an ideal range for water sports enthusiasts. The temperature does not cause significant discomfort, and swimming will be pleasant for the majority. However, it's important to remember that prolonged exposure to the water can still lead to cooling, so it's essential to monitor the time spent in the water, especially for children or elderly people. 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.
Water Temperature Chart Over the Last 30 Days
Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 13 | 19.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 14 | 18.2°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 15 | 17.6°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 16 | 17.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 17 | 17.2°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 18 | 16.2°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 19 | 16.6°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 20 | 15.9°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 21 | 19.0°C | 16.4°C | |
| SEP 22 | 19.0°C | 16.6°C | |
| SEP 23 | 19.0°C | 16.7°C | |
| SEP 24 | 19.0°C | 16.8°C | |
| SEP 25 | 19.0°C | 17.0°C | |
| SEP 26 | 19.0°C | 17.1°C | |
| SEP 27 | 19.0°C | 17.2°C |
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast
Actual nearshore water temperatures may fluctuate by several degrees from the reported values, especially following heavy rainfall or extended periods of strong winds. Certain wind patterns can cause colder, deeper waters to rise and replace the sun-warmed surface water, leading to noticeable variations.
Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that considers real-time water temperature changes, historical trends, key weather patterns, wind strength and direction, and air temperature specific to each region. Additionally, we incorporate data from other resorts to enhance accuracy.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 1°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| February | 1°C | 8°C | 15°C |
| March | 1°C | 9°C | 17°C |
| April | 2°C | 11°C | 20°C |
| May | 6°C | 14°C | 21°C |
| June | 15°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 22°C | 28°C |
| August | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| September | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| October | 5°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| November | 4°C | 7°C | 9°C |
| December | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
Alkali Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Alkali Lake: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
Alkali lakes in North Dakota are typically shallow, closed-basin water bodies whose temperatures respond quickly to air temperature and sunlight. During winter months the surface commonly reaches freezing, around 32°F (0°C) or lower when ice forms. In spring the lake warms into a broad range roughly 40–60°F (4–15°C) as snowmelt and cool rains dominate. Summer surface temperatures can typically climb to about 60–75°F (15–24°C) in average conditions, and in shallow, sun-exposed areas late in hot spells the surface can approach 80°F (27°C). By autumn the water cools back toward 50–60°F (10–15°C). Deeper pockets, when present, remain cooler than shallow margins, and short-term spikes or drops depend on wind, cloud cover, and seasonal precipitation.
Swimming at an alkali lake can be possible but is not universally recommended. Many such lakes have elevated alkalinity and mineral content that can irritate skin and eyes, and their shallow warmth favours algal blooms and bacterial growth in late summer, which can create health risks. Access is also variable: some lakes are on private land or have posted restrictions to protect habitat. If considering a swim, follow local advisories, respect signage and property boundaries, and avoid entering water during known algal blooms or when authorities warn against recreation.