Bad Vermilion Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Bad Vermilion Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Bad Vermilion Lake today is 12.2°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 54°F (12°C) to 60°F (15°C). The water is significantly warmer, and swimming becomes possible for most people. However, caution may still be required for prolonged stays in the water, as extended exposure can cause discomfort. This is a suitable temperature range for short swims and for those accustomed to cooler water. For more comfortable swimming, it is recommended to use proper gear. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 5 | 13.9°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 14.1°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 12.9°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.1°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 12.8°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 12.4°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 10.8°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 12.6°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 11.5°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 14 | 11.5°C | 12.1°C | |
| OCT 15 | 11.5°C | 12.1°C | |
| OCT 16 | 11.5°C | 12.1°C | |
| OCT 17 | 11.5°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 18 | 11.5°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 19 | 11.5°C | 12.0°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 0°C | 3°C | 5°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| March | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| April | 2°C | 6°C | 10°C |
| May | 2°C | 11°C | 19°C |
| June | 11°C | 19°C | 27°C |
| July | 14°C | 21°C | 27°C |
| August | 19°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| September | 16°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| October | 6°C | 12°C | 17°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 1°C | 4°C | 7°C |
Bad Vermilion Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Bad Vermilion Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Bad Vermilion Lake, like many lakes in northern Minnesota, follows a clear seasonal pattern in surface temperature. After ice-out in spring the water is chilly, typically ranging from about 40–55°F (4–13°C). Summer warmth usually brings surface temperatures into the 60–75°F range (15–24°C), with shallow, sheltered bays occasionally rising into the upper 70s (25–26°C) on hot, calm days. In autumn the lake cools back toward roughly 45–60°F (7–16°C) as air temperatures fall, and winter ice formation holds surface waters at or near freezing, roughly 32°F (0°C) at the ice interface and slightly warmer, around 39°F (4°C), in the deeper layers under ice.
Swimming in Bad Vermilion Lake is generally possible during the ice-free months and is commonly practiced where public access or private shoreline permits it, but conditions and amenities vary so local rules and posted signs should be checked. The primary constraints are water temperature and seasonal hazards: spring and late-fall swims carry significant cold-water and hypothermia risk, and winter ice cover makes routine swimming unsafe except for experienced, well-prepared ice swimmers. As with any lake, shoreline entry points, currents, water quality advisories, and boat traffic should be considered before entering the water.