Big Watab Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Big Watab Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Big Watab Lake today is 12.8°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 | 15.5°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 15.2°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 14.7°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 14.4°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 14.1°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 13.7°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 12.1°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 12.6°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 12.0°C | 12.8°C | |
| OCT 14 | 12.0°C | 12.7°C | |
| OCT 15 | 12.0°C | 12.7°C | |
| OCT 16 | 12.0°C | 12.6°C | |
| OCT 17 | 12.0°C | 12.6°C | |
| OCT 18 | 12.0°C | 12.6°C | |
| OCT 19 | 12.0°C | 12.5°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 | 1°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| February | 2°C | 9°C | 15°C |
| March | 0°C | 9°C | 17°C |
| April | 1°C | 11°C | 20°C |
| May | 8°C | 15°C | 21°C |
| June | 17°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| July | 17°C | 23°C | 29°C |
| August | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| September | 18°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| October | 5°C | 12°C | 19°C |
| November | 3°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| December | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
Big Watab Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Big Watab Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Big Watab Lake in Minnesota follows the seasonal temperature patterns typical of midwestern lakes. During summer, surface temperatures commonly reach the low to upper 70s °F (about 21–26 °C), with shallow bays occasionally warming into the upper 70s to around 80 °F (26–27 °C). In spring the water is much cooler, often ranging from the low 40s to the low 60s °F (about 5–16 °C) as the lake stratifies, while fall sees a steady decline back through the 50s–60s °F (10–16 °C). Deeper water remains colder year-round and in winter the lake typically approaches freezing, with ice cover in many years bringing surface temperatures close to 32 °F (0 °C).
Swimming is generally possible during the warmer months when surface temperatures are in the comfortable 70s °F (low to mid 20s °C), and many visitors swim from shore and boats. However, conditions vary: water quality advisories, the absence of lifeguards, watercraft traffic, colder deep water, and sudden temperature shifts mean swimmers should exercise caution. Swimming is unsafe when ice is present and is discouraged in spring and late fall until surface temperatures rise, because cold water can cause shock and increase hypothermia risk. Local access points and posted regulations determine specific allowances.