Big Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Big Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Big Lake today is 18.8°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 65°F (18°C) to 68°F (20°C). This is already quite warm water, which is ideal for most people. Swimming becomes comfortable, and prolonged stays in the water do not cause discomfort. This temperature is perfect for family trips and for those who prefer warmer water. It is also comfortable for water sports such as surfing or swimming. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| JUN 3 | 17.4°C | 17.2°C | |
| JUN 4 | 17.5°C | 17.2°C | |
| JUN 5 | 17.4°C | 17.2°C | |
| JUN 6 | 17.5°C | 17.2°C | |
| JUN 7 | 17.9°C | 17.2°C | |
| JUN 8 | 18.0°C | 17.2°C | |
| JUN 10 | 18.8°C | 17.2°C | |
| JUN 11 | 17.2°C | 18.7°C | |
| JUN 12 | 17.2°C | 18.6°C | |
| JUN 13 | 17.2°C | 18.6°C | |
| JUN 14 | 17.2°C | 18.5°C | |
| JUN 15 | 17.2°C | 18.4°C | |
| JUN 16 | 17.2°C | 18.3°C | |
| JUN 17 | 17.2°C | 18.2°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 | 1°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| February | 1°C | 8°C | 15°C |
| March | 0°C | 9°C | 17°C |
| April | 1°C | 11°C | 20°C |
| May | 2°C | 12°C | 21°C |
| June | 12°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| August | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| September | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| October | 5°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 2°C | 7°C | 11°C |
Big Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Big Lake: Weather Forecast
June 9
June 10
June 11
June 12
June 13
Location & Local Information
Big Lake in the Big Lake area of Minnesota experiences the same seasonal temperature swings typical of central Minnesota lakes. In winter the surface is usually at or just below freezing when ice forms, about 32°F (0°C). During spring and early summer surface temperatures commonly rise through the 40s–60s°F (4–16°C) as the lake warms, with the warmest summer surface temperatures often in the mid‑60s to upper‑70s°F (18–26°C) on sunny July and August days. By fall the surface cools back into the 50s–40s°F (10–5°C). Actual temperatures vary with depth, wind, recent weather and inflows, so shallow bays will warm faster than deeper basins.
Swimming is generally permitted at Big Lake where there is public access or private shoreline, but whether people should swim depends on conditions. In summer, when surface water reaches the mid‑60s to upper‑70s°F (18–26°C), swimming is comfortable for many; cooler spring and fall waters can feel chilly and increase the risk of cold‑water shock and hypothermia if exposure is prolonged. Open‑water swimming is unsafe when the lake is ice‑covered, and local advisories may close areas for water quality issues such as bacterial contamination or algal blooms. Visitors should follow posted rules, check current water‑quality and safety notices, and be mindful that lifeguards are not always present.