Big Swan Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Big Swan Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Big Swan Lake today is 12.3°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 | 14.9°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 14.3°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 12.9°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.4°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 13.4°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 12.8°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 12.6°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 11.9°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 12.0°C | 12.3°C | |
| OCT 14 | 12.0°C | 12.3°C | |
| OCT 15 | 12.0°C | 12.3°C | |
| OCT 16 | 12.0°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 17 | 12.0°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 18 | 12.0°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 19 | 12.0°C | 12.2°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 | 3°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| February | 3°C | 9°C | 15°C |
| March | 1°C | 9°C | 17°C |
| April | 2°C | 11°C | 20°C |
| May | 6°C | 14°C | 21°C |
| June | 14°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 Swan Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Big Swan Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Big Swan Lake in Minnesota experiences the same seasonal shifts common to shallow-to-moderate-depth lakes in the region. In spring the surface water typically warms from near-freezing after ice-out to roughly 40–60°F (4–16°C). Summer brings the warmest conditions, with surface temperatures often reaching about 68–78°F (20–26°C) on warm afternoons, though shallow bays can be a few degrees warmer and deeper water remains cooler. In autumn the surface cools again to roughly 45–60°F (7–16°C) as turnover occurs, and in winter the lake usually freezes; surface ice is at or near 32°F (0°C) while the water below the ice remains just above freezing.
Swimming is commonly practiced at lakes like Big Swan where public access or private frontage permits it, and many people swim there in summer when surface temperatures are most comfortable. Local ordinances, posted signs, and water-quality advisories determine whether swimming is formally allowed at any given access point, so checking with local authorities is wise. Cold water below about 60°F (15.5°C) can increase the risk of hypothermia and reduce stamina, and ice-covered conditions make swimming unsafe, so most recreational swimming is concentrated in warm, ice-free months for safety and comfort.