Chain Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Chain Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Chain Lake today is 4.6°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges less than 41°F (5°C). Such water is extremely cold and not recommended for swimming without proper preparation. In these conditions, the risk of hypothermia is very high, and prolonged exposure to the water can be hazardous to your health. If you decide to swim, it is important to have the appropriate gear, such as a wetsuit. Typically, only experienced swimmers or those who practice winter swimming venture into such waters. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| APR 11 | 2.3°C | 10.5°C | |
| APR 12 | 2.7°C | 10.5°C | |
| APR 13 | 3.1°C | 10.5°C | |
| APR 14 | 3.4°C | 10.5°C | |
| APR 15 | 4.0°C | 10.5°C | |
| APR 16 | 4.3°C | 10.5°C | |
| APR 17 | 4.4°C | 10.5°C | |
| APR 18 | 4.6°C | 10.5°C | |
| APR 19 | 10.5°C | 4.9°C | |
| APR 20 | 10.5°C | 5.2°C | |
| APR 21 | 10.5°C | 5.5°C | |
| APR 22 | 10.5°C | 5.8°C | |
| APR 23 | 10.5°C | 6.1°C | |
| APR 24 | 10.5°C | 6.4°C | |
| APR 25 | 10.5°C | 6.7°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 | 2°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| February | 1°C | 8°C | 15°C |
| March | 0°C | 9°C | 17°C |
| April | 1°C | 11°C | 20°C |
| May | 6°C | 14°C | 21°C |
| June | 14°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| August | 19°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| September | 14°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| October | 5°C | 10°C | 15°C |
| November | 3°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| December | 2°C | 5°C | 7°C |
Chain Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Chain Lake: Weather Forecast
April 18
April 19
April 20
April 21
April 22
April 23
Location & Local Information
Chain Lake in North Dakota experiences marked seasonal changes in surface water temperature. In spring, as ice melts, surface temperatures commonly rise from near freezing to roughly 40–55°F (4–13°C). By summer the upper water can warm to around 68–78°F (20–26°C), with shallower areas occasionally reaching the low 80s °F (about 27–28°C) on hot spells. Early autumn typically sees cooling to roughly 50–65°F (10–18°C) before the lake begins to lose heat and freeze. In winter the surface is generally at or below freezing, around 32°F (0°C), and many lakes in the region are ice-covered for months.
Swimming is generally possible at Chain Lake when open water conditions prevail, but it depends on local regulations, access points and water-quality conditions. People commonly swim in summer when surface temperatures are warm enough for comfort, though cooler depths can be significantly colder. Swimmers should be mindful that official lifeguards are rarely provided at smaller rural lakes, and seasonal hazards such as sudden drop-offs, aquatic vegetation, or harmful algal blooms can affect safety and water quality. Always check current local advisories and signage before entering the water, avoid swimming when ice is present, and take usual precautions for cold-water exposure.