Cranberry Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Cranberry Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Cranberry Lake today is 11.7°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 | 13.9°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 13.9°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 12.9°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 12.8°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 13.1°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 12.8°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 10.9°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 10.6°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 13.0°C | 11.8°C | |
| OCT 14 | 13.0°C | 11.8°C | |
| OCT 15 | 13.0°C | 11.9°C | |
| OCT 16 | 13.0°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 17 | 13.0°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 18 | 13.0°C | 12.1°C | |
| OCT 19 | 13.0°C | 12.2°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 | 1°C | 3°C |
| February | 0°C | 1°C | 3°C |
| March | 0°C | 2°C | 4°C |
| April | 0°C | 4°C | 9°C |
| May | 2°C | 10°C | 18°C |
| June | 15°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| July | 15°C | 22°C | 29°C |
| August | 18°C | 24°C | 30°C |
| September | 14°C | 19°C | 25°C |
| October | 9°C | 13°C | 17°C |
| November | 4°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| December | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
Cranberry Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Cranberry Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Cranberry Lake in Wisconsin experiences typical northern-midwest seasonal water temperatures. In the summer months surface temperatures commonly range from about 68–78°F (20–26°C), with shallow bays occasionally warming into the low 80s°F (27–28°C) on hot, calm days. Spring and early summer are cooler, often 40–60°F (4–15°C) as the lake stratifies, while temperatures trend down in autumn to roughly 45–60°F (7–16°C) before ice formation. In winter the lake usually freezes; surface temperatures at ice level are near 32°F (0°C) while the water beneath the ice remains closer to the maximum density point near 39°F (4°C).
Swimming is generally allowed in Cranberry Lake during the ice-free season where public access or private shoreline permits it, because it is a freshwater recreational lake. However, conditions and regulations vary by access point: there may be no lifeguards, water quality advisories for algae or bacteria can temporarily restrict swimming, and cold-water shock is a real concern in spring and late fall when temperatures are low. Ice swimming or walking on ice should only be attempted after local authorities confirm safe ice thickness. Observing posted notices and using common-sense safety measures will help ensure safe swimming.