Big Birch Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Big Birch Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Big Birch Lake today is 12.4°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 6 | 14.1°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 12.5°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.5°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 13.5°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 12.9°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 11.9°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 12.8°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 14 | 12.0°C | 12.4°C | |
| OCT 15 | 12.0°C | 12.4°C | |
| OCT 16 | 12.0°C | 12.3°C | |
| OCT 17 | 12.0°C | 12.3°C | |
| OCT 18 | 12.0°C | 12.3°C | |
| OCT 19 | 12.0°C | 12.3°C | |
| OCT 20 | 12.0°C | 12.3°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 | 2°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| February | 2°C | 9°C | 15°C |
| March | 1°C | 9°C | 17°C |
| April | 3°C | 12°C | 20°C |
| May | 6°C | 14°C | 21°C |
| June | 13°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 22°C | 28°C |
| August | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| September | 17°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| October | 5°C | 12°C | 19°C |
| November | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| December | 2°C | 7°C | 11°C |
Big Birch Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Big Birch Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Big Birch Lake follows the seasonal pattern typical of central Minnesota lakes. In winter the surface is usually at or below freezing, about 32°F (0°C) under ice. Spring brings a gradual warm-up with surface temperatures commonly between roughly 35–60°F (2–16°C) as the lake mixes and ice melts. By summer the surface typically warms to the high 60s and 70s Fahrenheit, roughly 68–78°F (20–26°C), although shallower bays can be warmer while deeper water remains noticeably cooler. In autumn the surface cools again into the mid-40s to mid-60s Fahrenheit, about 7–18°C, before the lake re-freezes.
Swimming at Big Birch Lake is generally allowed and is a common summertime activity because surface temperatures in July and August often reach comfortable ranges for most swimmers. Access points and private shorelines are used for recreation, but conditions can lead to temporary restrictions: ice makes winter swimming unsafe, and occasional water-quality advisories (for example, algal blooms or elevated bacteria) can prompt closures. Additionally, summer stratification means deeper water stays cold, so swimmers should be aware of sudden temperature changes and follow any local advisories or posted rules for safety.