Bitter Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Bitter Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Bitter Lake today is 17.1°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 | 19.7°C | 20.9°C | |
| SEP 15 | 18.9°C | 20.9°C | |
| SEP 16 | 18.4°C | 20.9°C | |
| SEP 17 | 17.6°C | 20.9°C | |
| SEP 18 | 17.3°C | 20.9°C | |
| SEP 19 | 17.5°C | 20.9°C | |
| SEP 20 | 17.3°C | 20.9°C | |
| SEP 21 | 17.1°C | 20.9°C | |
| SEP 22 | 20.9°C | 17.3°C | |
| SEP 23 | 20.9°C | 17.5°C | |
| SEP 24 | 20.9°C | 17.7°C | |
| SEP 25 | 20.9°C | 17.9°C | |
| SEP 26 | 20.9°C | 18.1°C | |
| SEP 27 | 20.9°C | 18.2°C | |
| SEP 28 | 20.9°C | 18.4°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 | 6°C | 12°C |
| February | 1°C | 8°C | 15°C |
| March | 0°C | 9°C | 17°C |
| April | 2°C | 11°C | 20°C |
| May | 7°C | 14°C | 21°C |
| June | 13°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| July | 17°C | 22°C | 28°C |
| August | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| September | 17°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| October | 5°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| December | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
Bitter Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Bitter Lake: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
Bitter Lake, like many shallow prairie lakes in South Dakota, shows pronounced seasonal swings in surface water temperature. In winter the lake commonly reaches near freezing, around 32°F (0°C) or lower under ice. Spring warming typically brings surface temperatures into the 40–60°F (4–16°C) range as the ice melts and runoff cools the water. During the warmest summer months the surface often climbs to roughly 68–80°F (20–27°C), and can briefly reach the low 80s°F (around 27–28°C) during heat waves. By autumn the water steadily cools again toward the 50–60°F (10–16°C) band before refreezing.
Swimming is possible when conditions warrant, and most recreational use occurs in summer when surface temperatures are warmest. Whether swimming is formally allowed depends on local management, posted signs and water-quality conditions; some areas may have designated beaches or restrictions. Shallow depths, aquatic vegetation, and occasional algal blooms can affect clarity and safety, and many sites lack lifeguards, so caution is advised. Winter swimming or ice immersion is not recommended without proper safety measures. Visitors should check current local advisories for water quality, closures, and any facility-specific rules before entering the lake.