Cross Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Cross Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Cross Lake today is 12.7°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 | 15.0°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 15.0°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 14.5°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 14.5°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 14.1°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 13.4°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 12.3°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 11.9°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 12.5°C | 12.7°C | |
| OCT 14 | 12.5°C | 12.7°C | |
| OCT 15 | 12.5°C | 12.7°C | |
| OCT 16 | 12.5°C | 12.7°C | |
| OCT 17 | 12.5°C | 12.7°C | |
| OCT 18 | 12.5°C | 12.6°C | |
| OCT 19 | 12.5°C | 12.6°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 | 4°C | 7°C |
| February | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| March | 0°C | 4°C | 9°C |
| April | 3°C | 8°C | 13°C |
| May | 10°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| June | 15°C | 21°C | 27°C |
| July | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| August | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| September | 18°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| October | 6°C | 13°C | 19°C |
| November | 3°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| December | 1°C | 4°C | 7°C |
Cross Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Cross Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Cross Lake in Minnesota experiences marked seasonal variation in surface water temperature. During winter the lake is typically ice-covered and near freezing, with subsurface water commonly around 32–40°F (0–4°C). In spring the surface warms slowly, often ranging from about 40–60°F (4–16°C) as snowmelt and runoff modulate temperatures. Summer brings the warmest conditions, with typical surface readings in the upper 60s to mid‑70s °F (20–24°C) and sheltered shallow bays occasionally reaching the upper 70s to low 80s °F (26–28°C) on hot, calm days. In fall the lake cools again, with temperatures dropping into the 50s–60s °F (10–16°C) before ice formation. These values vary by depth, wind, shading, and exact location on the lake; deeper water remains colder year‑round.
Swimming in Cross Lake is generally permitted and widely practiced at public beaches, resort areas, and boat landings because most Minnesota lakes are used for recreation. Local authorities and landowners may post restrictions for safety or water quality reasons, for example during harmful algal blooms, bacterial contamination after heavy rains, or when ice conditions are unsafe, so temporary advisories can close swimming areas. Swimmers should be aware of colder temperatures outside midsummer, variable conditions by depth and location, and follow posted guidance for safe recreational use.