Cotton Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Cotton Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Cotton Lake today is 11.9°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 50°F (10°C) to 54°F (12°C). The water is slightly warmer, but still cool for most people. Swimming in such conditions is possible, but for most people, the time spent in the water should be limited to avoid hypothermia. Even experienced swimmers may feel discomfort if they stay in the water for too long. To improve comfort and safety, a wetsuit can be used. 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 | 13.7°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 13.3°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 12.2°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 12.5°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 11.8°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 10.7°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 10.2°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 10.9°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 11.5°C | 11.9°C | |
| OCT 14 | 11.5°C | 11.9°C | |
| OCT 15 | 11.5°C | 11.8°C | |
| OCT 16 | 11.5°C | 11.8°C | |
| OCT 17 | 11.5°C | 11.8°C | |
| OCT 18 | 11.5°C | 11.8°C | |
| OCT 19 | 11.5°C | 11.8°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 | 3°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| February | 2°C | 9°C | 15°C |
| March | 0°C | 9°C | 17°C |
| April | 2°C | 11°C | 20°C |
| May | 5°C | 13°C | 21°C |
| June | 13°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| August | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| September | 16°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| October | 5°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 3°C | 6°C | 8°C |
Cotton Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Cotton Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Cotton Lake in Minnesota experiences the broad seasonal temperature swings typical of northern lakes. In winter the surface is generally at or below freezing, about 32°F (0°C) and often frozen over. During spring the water warms from roughly 35–55°F (2–13°C) as ice melts and runoff continues. Summer is when surface temperatures are most comfortable for recreation: many Minnesota lakes reach about 60–80°F (16–27°C), with shallow bays occasionally warming to 75–85°F (24–29°C) on extended hot spells; deeper water remains noticeably cooler below the thermocline. By autumn the surface cools again, typically falling into the 40–60°F (4–16°C) range before freeze-up. Exact values at any Cotton Lake depend on depth, shading, and recent weather.
Swimming is commonly permitted where there is public access or a designated beach, but whether you can legally or safely swim depends on local rules and current conditions. Health departments sometimes post advisories for high bacteria levels or cyanobacterial (blue-green algae) blooms, which can make swimming unsafe. Cold-water risks—such as cold shock in spring or fall—and the danger of thin ice in winter mean seasonal suitability varies. Always heed posted signs, check local water-quality updates, and use life jackets or supervision appropriate to the site and conditions.