Chisago Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Chisago Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Chisago Lake today is 13.9°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 | 15.4°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 15.7°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 13.6°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 14.7°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 14.8°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 14.3°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 13.3°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 12.9°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 12.5°C | 13.8°C | |
| OCT 14 | 12.5°C | 13.8°C | |
| OCT 15 | 12.5°C | 13.7°C | |
| OCT 16 | 12.5°C | 13.6°C | |
| OCT 17 | 12.5°C | 13.6°C | |
| OCT 18 | 12.5°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 19 | 12.5°C | 13.4°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 | 2°C | 5°C |
| February | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| March | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| April | 3°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| May | 9°C | 15°C | 21°C |
| June | 16°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| July | 21°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| August | 20°C | 24°C | 29°C |
| September | 18°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| October | 6°C | 13°C | 19°C |
| November | 3°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| December | 1°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Chisago Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Chisago Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Chisago Lake, part of the Chisago Lakes chain in eastern Minnesota, experiences pronounced seasonal shifts in surface water temperature. In winter the lake typically freezes and surface temperatures hover around 32°F (0°C), with liquid water beneath the ice often remaining just above freezing. Spring thaw brings a warming trend, with surface temperatures commonly rising from roughly 35–55°F (2–13°C) between March and May. Peak summer months usually produce the warmest water, often in the 68–78°F range (20–26°C) in June through August and occasionally reaching the low 80s°F (27–28°C) during hot spells. As autumn arrives, temperatures fall again, generally cooling to about 50–65°F (10–18°C) through September to November.
Swimming at Chisago Lake is generally permitted where public access points or private shorelines exist because the lake is a recreational water body; however, practical availability depends on season and conditions. Most people consider the warm summer period the safest and most comfortable time for swimming, while spring and fall can feel chilly and winter swimming is unsafe when the lake is ice-covered. Local rules, posted signage and health advisories may restrict or recommend against swimming in specific areas, and swimmers should be mindful of cold-water risks, weather changes and typical small-lake hazards such as sudden drop-offs or boat traffic.