Dry Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Dry Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Dry Lake today is 15.9°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 | 18.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 15 | 17.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 16 | 17.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 17 | 17.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 18 | 17.1°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 19 | 16.2°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 20 | 16.4°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 21 | 15.9°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 22 | 19.0°C | 16.1°C | |
| SEP 23 | 19.0°C | 16.2°C | |
| SEP 24 | 19.0°C | 16.4°C | |
| SEP 25 | 19.0°C | 16.5°C | |
| SEP 26 | 19.0°C | 16.7°C | |
| SEP 27 | 19.0°C | 16.8°C | |
| SEP 28 | 19.0°C | 17.0°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 | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 22°C | 28°C |
| August | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| September | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| October | 5°C | 11°C | 17°C |
| November | 3°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| December | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
Dry Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Dry Lake: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
September 26
Location & Local Information
Dry Lake in North Dakota follows the typical seasonal pattern of small prairie lakes. In late spring, as ice breaks up, surface temperatures commonly range from about 45–65°F (7–18°C) while the water is still warming. Peak summer surface temperatures are usually in the mid-60s to upper-70s °F, roughly 68–78°F (20–26°C), and during warm spells can approach 80°F (27°C) in shallow bays. By early fall the surface cools back through the 50s–60s °F (10–16°C) and by late autumn it drops toward near-freezing conditions; under ice in winter the water generally sits just above 32°F (0°C), often 32–39°F (0–4°C) depending on depth.
Swimming is typically possible during the ice-free months when public access exists and no health advisories are posted. Whether swimming is permitted depends on local ownership and management—some lakes have designated swimming areas, others are more informal—so checking posted signs or county guidance is important. Shallow areas warm more quickly and are more comfortable for swimmers, but variable clarity, aquatic vegetation, and occasional blue‑green algae advisories can restrict safe swimming. Also note there are often no lifeguards, and cold water at depth can present a risk, so caution and local information should guide any decision to enter the water.