Audubon Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Audubon Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Audubon Lake today is 16.8°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 14 | 18.6°C | 19.7°C | |
| SEP 15 | 17.6°C | 19.7°C | |
| SEP 16 | 17.5°C | 19.7°C | |
| SEP 17 | 17.3°C | 19.7°C | |
| SEP 18 | 17.0°C | 19.7°C | |
| SEP 19 | 16.1°C | 19.7°C | |
| SEP 20 | 16.7°C | 19.7°C | |
| SEP 21 | 16.8°C | 19.7°C | |
| SEP 22 | 19.7°C | 16.9°C | |
| SEP 23 | 19.7°C | 17.1°C | |
| SEP 24 | 19.7°C | 17.2°C | |
| SEP 25 | 19.7°C | 17.4°C | |
| SEP 26 | 19.7°C | 17.5°C | |
| SEP 27 | 19.7°C | 17.7°C | |
| SEP 28 | 19.7°C | 17.8°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 | 0°C | 6°C | 12°C |
| February | 0°C | 8°C | 15°C |
| March | 0°C | 9°C | 17°C |
| April | 1°C | 11°C | 20°C |
| May | 7°C | 14°C | 21°C |
| June | 13°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 23°C | 30°C |
| August | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| September | 17°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| October | 5°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| November | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| December | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
Audubon Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Audubon Lake: Weather Forecast
September 21
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
Audubon Lake, located within the Audubon National Wildlife Refuge in central North Dakota, experiences the same seasonal swings as other shallow prairie wetlands. Ice typically forms in late fall and can persist through early spring, so winter surface conditions are at or below freezing (32°F/0°C) and are unsuitable for swimming. In spring and fall the water is cool, often ranging from roughly 40–60°F (4–15°C) as meltwater and chilly air temperatures dominate. During the warmest summer weeks, shallow areas can warm into the upper 60s to upper 70s Fahrenheit, roughly 20–26°C, though deeper or more shaded sections remain noticeably cooler.
Swimming opportunities are limited and, in many respects, discouraged. Audubon Lake sits within a managed wildlife refuge where recreation is focused on wildlife viewing and habitat protection rather than beach-style use; shoreline marshes, dense vegetation and variable water quality make formal swimming rare. Even on warm days the lake’s shallow, fluctuating levels and cold pockets present safety and comfort concerns. Anyone considering entering the water should check current refuge rules and local conditions, as official restrictions or advisories and natural hazards often make swimming impractical or prohibited.