East Vermillion Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in East Vermillion Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in East Vermillion Lake today is 13.1°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 | 14.5°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 14.1°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 12.6°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.8°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 13.5°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 13.2°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 12.2°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 13.5°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 14.5°C | 13.2°C | |
| OCT 14 | 14.5°C | 13.2°C | |
| OCT 15 | 14.5°C | 13.3°C | |
| OCT 16 | 14.5°C | 13.4°C | |
| OCT 17 | 14.5°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 18 | 14.5°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 19 | 14.5°C | 13.6°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 | 1°C | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| March | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| April | 4°C | 8°C | 13°C |
| May | 9°C | 15°C | 22°C |
| June | 15°C | 20°C | 25°C |
| July | 21°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| August | 21°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| September | 17°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| October | 10°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| November | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
East Vermillion Lake: Water Temperature by Location
East Vermillion Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
East Vermillion Lake experiences a marked seasonal shift in water temperature typical of prairie lakes in South Dakota. In winter the surface often nears freezing, around 32°F (0°C) and can be colder under ice. Spring sees a gradual rise, generally ranging from about 40–60°F (4–16°C) as air temperatures warm. By early to mid-summer the lake commonly reaches comfortable swimming temperatures in the mid-60s to high-70s °F (about 18–26°C), with peak warm spells sometimes pushing surface readings into the upper 70s °F (around 25–27°C). In autumn the water cools again, dropping back into the 50s °F (10–15°C) and lower as freeze-up approaches.
Swimming at East Vermillion Lake is typically possible during the open-water season when temperatures are warm enough for comfort and safety, but whether people swim depends on local conditions and posted guidance. Cooler shoulder-season water can present risks such as cold shock and reduced buoyancy, and warm months occasionally bring algae blooms or bacteria advisories that temporarily restrict swimming. In addition, many access points lack lifeguards, so swimmers should monitor current water temperatures, check for any local water-quality or safety advisories, and use appropriate caution.
