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.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Clear Lake today is 13.3°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 | 14.5°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 13.5°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 12.9°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.8°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 13.5°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 13.1°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 12.7°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 12.6°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 11.5°C | 13.2°C | |
| OCT 14 | 11.5°C | 13.1°C | |
| OCT 15 | 11.5°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 16 | 11.5°C | 12.9°C | |
| OCT 17 | 11.5°C | 12.9°C | |
| OCT 18 | 11.5°C | 12.8°C | |
| OCT 19 | 11.5°C | 12.7°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 | 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 | 6°C | 11°C |
Clear Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Clear Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
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.