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Artichoke Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast

This page provides information on the current water temperature in Artichoke Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.

Big Stone Lake, United States
Big Stone Lake, United States © By McGhiever, CC BY-SA 3.0

Current Water Temperature

17.7°C
Today
17.3°C
Yesterday
20.1°C
A Week Ago
Get instant access to real-time water temperatures for this and all other locations with our iOS and Android apps.

Water Temperature in Artichoke Lake today is 17.7°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

From August 21 to September 21

Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data

Date Current Average Forecast
SEP 1420.1°C21.3°C
SEP 1519.3°C21.3°C
SEP 1619.5°C21.3°C
SEP 1718.7°C21.3°C
SEP 1817.4°C21.3°C
SEP 1917.6°C21.3°C
SEP 2017.3°C21.3°C
SEP 2117.7°C21.3°C
SEP 2221.3°C17.9°C
SEP 2321.3°C18.1°C
SEP 2421.3°C18.2°C
SEP 2521.3°C18.4°C
SEP 2621.3°C18.6°C
SEP 2721.3°C18.8°C
SEP 2821.3°C19.0°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
January1°C7°C12°C
February0°C8°C15°C
March1°C9°C17°C
April2°C11°C20°C
May8°C15°C23°C
June16°C20°C25°C
July17°C23°C29°C
August21°C25°C28°C
September17°C21°C26°C
October5°C12°C19°C
November3°C7°C11°C
December1°C5°C8°C

Artichoke Lake: Water Temperature by Location

Artichoke Lake: Weather Forecast

September 22

° / °
overcast
rain: 2% | wind:

September 23

° / °
overcast
rain: 1% | wind:

September 24

° / °
slight rain showers
rain: 42% | wind:

September 25

° / °
overcast
rain: 9% | wind:

Location & Local Information

Artichoke Lake in Minnesota follows the typical temperate-lake seasonal cycle for water temperature. In spring (April–May) surface waters are cold, often in the 40–60°F range (4–15°C) as meltwater and chilly air dominate. Summer surface temperatures (June–August) commonly warm to roughly 68–80°F (20–27°C) on sunny days, though cooler conditions can persist after storms and in deeper or shaded areas. Early fall (September–October) sees a steady cooling to about 50–65°F (10–18°C), and by winter the lake surface approaches freezing, at or near 32°F (0°C) where ice can form. Actual temperatures vary by year, weather, and depth; deeper water stays colder through summer.

Swimming at Artichoke Lake is generally possible and normally takes place during the warmer months when surface temperatures reach the comfort range. There may be public access points but formal beaches, lifeguards, or municipal swim areas are not always present, so swimmers should exercise caution. Local health advisories for blue‑green algae blooms or bacterial contamination can temporarily prohibit swimming; checking current advisories is important. Additionally, cold‑water shock and hypothermia are risks in spring, early summer, and after sudden weather changes, so recreational swimming is safest from late June through August when temperatures are highest and water conditions are more favorable.

Nearby Lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Artichoke Lake?
Water Temperature in Artichoke Lake today is 17.7°C.
What is the water temperature in Artichoke Lake during the summer months?
The water temperature in Artichoke Lake in summer fluctuates in the range of 16°C - 29°C.
Is it possible to swim in Artichoke Lake and what are the possibilities for this?
Artichoke Lake, located on the border of Minnesota and South Dakota, is not suitable for swimming due to ecological restrictions and lack of facilitation. Its primary use is for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.