East Lake Okoboji — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in East Lake Okoboji, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in East Lake Okoboji today is 19.6°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 65°F (18°C) to 68°F (20°C). This is already quite warm water, which is ideal for most people. Swimming becomes comfortable, and prolonged stays in the water do not cause discomfort. This temperature is perfect for family trips and for those who prefer warmer water. It is also comfortable for water sports such as surfing or swimming. 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 | 21.7°C | 21.8°C | |
| SEP 15 | 21.9°C | 21.8°C | |
| SEP 16 | 20.8°C | 21.8°C | |
| SEP 17 | 21.2°C | 21.8°C | |
| SEP 18 | 20.5°C | 21.8°C | |
| SEP 19 | 19.9°C | 21.8°C | |
| SEP 20 | 19.3°C | 21.8°C | |
| SEP 21 | 19.6°C | 21.8°C | |
| SEP 22 | 21.8°C | 19.7°C | |
| SEP 23 | 21.8°C | 19.8°C | |
| SEP 24 | 21.8°C | 19.9°C | |
| SEP 25 | 21.8°C | 20.0°C | |
| SEP 26 | 21.8°C | 20.2°C | |
| SEP 27 | 21.8°C | 20.3°C | |
| SEP 28 | 21.8°C | 20.4°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 | 2°C | 5°C | 7°C |
| February | 1°C | 4°C | 6°C |
| March | 3°C | 6°C | 8°C |
| April | 5°C | 10°C | 15°C |
| May | 11°C | 16°C | 21°C |
| June | 15°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| July | 21°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| August | 22°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| September | 18°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| October | 8°C | 14°C | 20°C |
| November | 1°C | 6°C | 10°C |
| December | 2°C | 4°C | 7°C |
East Lake Okoboji: Water Temperature by Location
East Lake Okoboji: Weather Forecast
September 21
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
East Lake Okoboji’s surface temperatures change a lot through the year. In spring the water typically runs cool, roughly 40–60°F (4–16°C) as the lake recovers from winter stratification. By summer, surface temperatures commonly warm to about 68–80°F (20–27°C), with the warmest readings in July and August when swimming is most comfortable. In early fall the lake cools again to around 45–65°F (7–18°C) as air temperatures drop. In winter the surface can freeze, with near-surface water at or just above freezing (around 32–39°F / 0–4°C) beneath the ice until thaw in spring.
Swimming in East Lake Okoboji is generally allowed and is a popular recreational activity in warmer months because summer temperatures reach comfortable ranges and there are publicly accessible shoreline areas and beaches. However, conditions sometimes restrict swimming: ice cover prevents safe swimming in winter, and occasional blue‑green algal (cyanobacterial) blooms or other water‑quality advisories in late summer can lead local authorities to post temporary no‑swim warnings. Lifeguard presence, designated swimming zones, and water‑quality updates vary by location and season, so swimmers should follow posted guidance and check current advisories before entering the water.