Big Kandiyohi Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Big Kandiyohi Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Big Kandiyohi Lake today is 5.1°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 41°F (5°C) to 47°F (8°C). This water temperature is still quite low, and swimming in such conditions may only be comfortable for hardened individuals. It is recommended to limit the time spent in the water to avoid hypothermia. For those not accustomed to cold water, it is better to refrain from swimming. However, if you decide to enter the water, it is advisable to wear a warm wetsuit for protection against the cold. 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 26 | 8.8°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 27 | 9.4°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 28 | 8.2°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 29 | 6.9°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 30 | 7.3°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 31 | 7.2°C | 12.0°C | |
| NOV 1 | 6.8°C | 7.4°C | |
| NOV 2 | 5.0°C | 7.4°C | |
| NOV 3 | 7.4°C | 5.2°C | |
| NOV 4 | 7.4°C | 5.3°C | |
| NOV 5 | 7.4°C | 5.4°C | |
| NOV 6 | 7.4°C | 5.6°C | |
| NOV 7 | 7.4°C | 5.7°C | |
| NOV 8 | 7.4°C | 5.8°C | |
| NOV 9 | 7.4°C | 5.9°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 | 3°C | 9°C | 15°C |
| March | 1°C | 9°C | 17°C |
| April | 3°C | 12°C | 20°C |
| May | 8°C | 15°C | 23°C |
| June | 15°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| July | 17°C | 23°C | 29°C |
| August | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| September | 18°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| October | 5°C | 12°C | 19°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 2°C | 7°C | 11°C |
Big Kandiyohi Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Big Kandiyohi Lake: Weather Forecast
November 3
November 4
November 5
November 6
November 7
Location & Local Information
Big Kandiyohi Lake follows the seasonal patterns typical of central Minnesota lakes. In winter the lake sits at or just above freezing, about 32°F (0°C), and is usually ice-covered for several months. Spring thaw brings water temperatures up from roughly 40–60°F (4–16°C) depending on air temperatures and snowmelt timing. By midsummer, surface temperatures commonly range from the upper 60s to mid-70s °F (20–24°C) and in shallow, sun-warmed bays can approach or briefly exceed 80°F (27°C). In autumn the surface cools again into the 50s–60s °F (10–16°C) before refreezing. Thermal stratification can produce colder deep-water pockets even in summer.
Swimming at Big Kandiyohi Lake is generally possible during the ice-free season when surface temperatures are comfortable, and many people swim there for recreation. Availability depends on local access points, private shoreline use, and any posted restrictions. Safety considerations include sudden cold water below the surface, absence of lifeguards at most informal sites, and occasional water-quality advisories such as blue‑green algae blooms; these advisories can temporarily prohibit swimming for health reasons. Visitors should check current local guidance and water‑quality reports before entering the water and exercise usual lake-safety precautions.