Buffalo Lakes — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Buffalo Lakes, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Buffalo Lakes today is 12.5°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 | 14.0°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 13.0°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 12.4°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.2°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 12.8°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 11.7°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 11.3°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 11.9°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 11.5°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 14 | 11.5°C | 12.4°C | |
| OCT 15 | 11.5°C | 12.4°C | |
| OCT 16 | 11.5°C | 12.3°C | |
| OCT 17 | 11.5°C | 12.3°C | |
| OCT 18 | 11.5°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 19 | 11.5°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 | 0°C | 6°C | 12°C |
| February | 0°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 | 14°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| August | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| September | 17°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| October | 5°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| December | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
Buffalo Lakes: Water Temperature by Location
Buffalo Lakes: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
The lakes in the Buffalo Lakes area of South Dakota experience pronounced seasonal shifts in surface water temperature. In spring, as ice melts and runoff continues, surface readings commonly range from about 40–60°F (4–16°C). By summer, shallow basins and long daylight hours warm lake surfaces to roughly 68–82°F (20–28°C), with occasional warm spells pushing temperatures a few degrees higher in the warmest, shallowest bays. During fall the water cools again into the neighborhood of 45–65°F (7–18°C) as air temperatures drop, and in winter the lakes generally reach freezing or develop stable ice cover with surface temperatures at or just below 32°F (0°C), depending on local conditions.
Swimming is generally possible in the Buffalo Lakes during the warmer months when surface temperatures are most comfortable, typically late June through August, but availability depends on local access, signage and water conditions. Warmer shallow water creates favorable swimming conditions, while colder spring or fall water and winter ice make swimming unsafe. Factors such as water clarity, algal blooms, submerged hazards and the absence of lifeguards can also affect whether swimming is advisable, so visitors should check current conditions and posted advisories before entering the water.