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Clear Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast

This page provides information on the current water temperature in Clear Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.

Big Stone Lake, United States
Big Stone Lake, United States © By McGhiever, CC BY-SA 3.0

Current Water Temperature

26.5°C
Today
23.7°C
Yesterday
21.7°C
A Week Ago
Get instant access to real-time water temperatures for this and all other locations with our iOS and Android apps.

Water Temperature in Clear Lake today is 26.5°C.

Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 79°F (26°C) to 82°F (28°C). This is very warm water, allowing for extended stays without any discomfort. Swimming in these conditions will be particularly enjoyable, making it the ideal temperature range for those who want to relax in the sea. Additionally, water in this temperature range is suitable for children and elderly people, as it is comfortable for prolonged stays. 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

From June 20 to July 21

Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data

Date Current Average Forecast
JUL 1421.7°C21.8°C
JUL 1523.7°C21.8°C
JUL 1623.8°C21.8°C
JUL 1723.9°C21.8°C
JUL 1823.9°C21.8°C
JUL 1923.9°C21.8°C
JUL 2023.7°C21.8°C
JUL 2124.1°C21.8°C
JUL 2221.8°C26.3°C
JUL 2321.8°C26.0°C
JUL 2421.8°C25.8°C
JUL 2521.8°C25.6°C
JUL 2621.8°C25.3°C
JUL 2721.8°C25.1°C
JUL 2821.8°C24.9°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
January0°C6°C12°C
February0°C8°C15°C
March0°C9°C17°C
April2°C11°C20°C
May7°C14°C21°C
June14°C19°C22°C
July17°C22°C27°C
August20°C24°C28°C
September17°C20°C22°C
October5°C12°C18°C
November3°C7°C10°C
December1°C6°C11°C

Clear Lake: Water Temperature by Location

Clear Lake: Weather Forecast

July 22

° / °
overcast
rain: 1% | wind:

July 23

° / °
overcast
rain: 2% | wind:

July 24

° / °
light drizzle
rain: 8% | wind:

July 25

° / °
overcast
rain: 4% | wind:

July 26

° / °
clear sky
rain: 11% | wind:

Location & Local Information

Clear Lake in eastern South Dakota follows the patterns of shallow prairie lakes, so its surface temperatures change a lot through the year. In winter the lake usually freezes and surface water sits at or very near freezing, about 32°F (0°C) with slightly warmer, near‑freezing water beneath the ice. During spring and early summer the surface warms from roughly 40–65°F (4–18°C) as snowmelt and cool nights moderate temperatures. Peak summer conditions commonly bring surface temperatures into the 70–80°F range (21–27°C), and during hot, calm spells the shallow areas can approach the mid‑80s °F (around 29°C). As fall sets in the water cools back toward the 50s–60s °F (10–16°C).

Swimming is typically allowed at Clear Lake where public beaches or access points exist because it is used for recreation, but actual access depends on local rules, posted signage, and water‑quality or safety advisories. In summer the warmed surface layers are suitable for casual swimming, while in winter ice cover makes swimming unsafe except for supervised or organized winter events. Visitors should check current local guidance about bacteria blooms, nuisance weeds, lifeguard coverage, and ice thickness before entering the water.

Nearby Lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Clear Lake?
Water Temperature in Clear Lake today is 26.5°C.
What is the water temperature in Clear Lake during the summer months?
The water temperature in Clear Lake in summer fluctuates in the range of 14°C - 28°C.
Is it possible to swim in Clear Lake and what are the possibilities for this?
Yes, it is possible to swim in Clear Lake, South Dakota. However, it is subject to local regulations, the swimmer's skills, and weather conditions.