Big Sand Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Big Sand Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Big Sand Lake today is 17.2°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 | 19.4°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 15 | 18.7°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 16 | 18.6°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 17 | 18.9°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 18 | 18.7°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 19 | 18.6°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 20 | 18.4°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 21 | 17.2°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 22 | 18.0°C | 17.2°C | |
| SEP 23 | 18.0°C | 17.3°C | |
| SEP 24 | 18.0°C | 17.3°C | |
| SEP 25 | 18.0°C | 17.4°C | |
| SEP 26 | 18.0°C | 17.4°C | |
| SEP 27 | 18.0°C | 17.4°C | |
| SEP 28 | 18.0°C | 17.5°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 | 6°C |
| February | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| March | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| April | 1°C | 5°C | 9°C |
| May | 4°C | 10°C | 17°C |
| June | 15°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| July | 18°C | 23°C | 28°C |
| August | 18°C | 24°C | 30°C |
| September | 14°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| October | 9°C | 13°C | 17°C |
| November | 4°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Big Sand Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Big Sand Lake: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
Big Sand Lake in Wisconsin typically follows the seasonal temperature patterns common to northern lakes. During spring thaw and early summer (April–June) surface temperatures often range from about 40–65°F (4–18°C) as cool influxes from runoff and deeper water dominate. By midsummer (July–August) exposed bays and the upper thermocline commonly warm to roughly 68–78°F (20–26°C), with the shallowest, sun-exposed areas occasionally reaching around 80°F (27°C). In autumn the surface cools again, falling back through the 50s°F (10–15°C) into the 40s°F (4–10°C) as air temperatures drop and mixing increases. Through winter the lake typically freezes, making open-water swimming impractical until ice-out.
Swimming is generally permitted on Big Sand Lake where shoreline access exists, but whether people swim depends on local access points, posted rules, and water-quality advisories. Warm summer bays at about 70–78°F (21–26°C) are comfortable for most swimmers, while water below about 60°F (15°C) feels brisk and increases the risk of cold-related stress; ice cover prevents safe swimming in winter. Visitors should use designated access sites or shorelines where allowed, watch for algae or bacteria advisories, and follow posted safety guidance to determine if conditions are suitable for swimming.