Devils Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Devils Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Devils Lake today is 16.6°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 60°F (15°C) to 65°F (18°C). The water is comfortable for most people, making it an ideal range for water sports enthusiasts. The temperature does not cause significant discomfort, and swimming will be pleasant for the majority. However, it's important to remember that prolonged exposure to the water can still lead to cooling, so it's essential to monitor the time spent in the water, especially for children or elderly people. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 14 | 18.0°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 15 | 17.1°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 16 | 17.1°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 17 | 16.9°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 18 | 16.5°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 19 | 15.9°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 20 | 15.8°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 21 | 16.6°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 22 | 18.5°C | 16.7°C | |
| SEP 23 | 18.5°C | 16.8°C | |
| SEP 24 | 18.5°C | 16.9°C | |
| SEP 25 | 18.5°C | 17.0°C | |
| SEP 26 | 18.5°C | 17.1°C | |
| SEP 27 | 18.5°C | 17.2°C | |
| SEP 28 | 18.5°C | 17.3°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 | 1°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| February | 1°C | 8°C | 15°C |
| March | 0°C | 9°C | 17°C |
| April | 1°C | 11°C | 20°C |
| May | 6°C | 14°C | 21°C |
| June | 14°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| August | 19°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| September | 15°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| October | 5°C | 10°C | 15°C |
| November | 3°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| December | 1°C | 5°C | 7°C |
Devils Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Devils Lake: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
Devils Lake in North Dakota experiences a wide range of water temperatures through the year. In spring (April–May) surface temperatures typically rise from roughly 40–60°F (4–15°C) as ice melts and runoff cools the water. Summer (June–August) brings the warmest conditions, with surface readings often between about 68–82°F (20–28°C) on sunny, calm days, though deeper or wind-mixed areas remain cooler. Fall (September–October) sees a gradual decline, commonly in the 50–65°F (10–18°C) range before freeze-up. In winter the lake is usually ice-covered; surface water is at or just above freezing, around 32°F (0°C), making open-water swimming impractical and unsafe.
Swimming is generally allowed during the ice-free months and people use public beaches and access points for recreation, but conditions dictate whether it is advisable. Ice cover and near-freezing temperatures prevent swimming in winter, and during warmer months users should heed posted advisories because winds, waves, fluctuating water levels, sudden drop-offs, or algal/bacterial blooms can create hazards. Lifeguard coverage and water-quality monitoring are variable, so checking current local conditions and signage before entering the water is recommended for safety.