Ensign Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Ensign Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Ensign Lake today is 12.2°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 | 13.5°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 13.8°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 12.1°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 12.6°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 12.4°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 12.4°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 11.1°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 10.7°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 12.5°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 14 | 12.5°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 15 | 12.5°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 16 | 12.5°C | 12.3°C | |
| OCT 17 | 12.5°C | 12.3°C | |
| OCT 18 | 12.5°C | 12.3°C | |
| OCT 19 | 12.5°C | 12.3°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 | 0°C | 4°C | 9°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 5°C |
| March | 0°C | 2°C | 4°C |
| April | 1°C | 4°C | 6°C |
| May | 4°C | 10°C | 16°C |
| June | 12°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| July | 18°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| August | 17°C | 24°C | 30°C |
| September | 14°C | 17°C | 20°C |
| October | 9°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| November | 2°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 4°C | 9°C |
Ensign Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Ensign Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Ensign Lake in Minnesota follows the typical seasonal temperature cycle of northern lakes. After ice-out in spring, surface temperatures commonly rise from around 40–55°F (4–13°C) through late spring. In summer, surface water usually warms to roughly 65–75°F (18–24°C), and in shallow bays on calm, sunny days temperatures can briefly reach the mid-70s to low 80s°F (24–28°C). By early fall the lake cools back through the 50s–60s°F (10–16°C) as air temperatures drop. In winter the lake is generally at or just above freezing under ice, about 32–34°F (0–1°C), making conventional swimming impractical.
Swimming at Ensign Lake is possible where shoreline access exists and there are no local restrictions, and many people swim there during the warmer months because summer surface temperatures are often comfortable. However, swimmers should be mindful of hazards: water clarity, sudden depth changes, cold-water shock near springs or deeper water, and occasional algal blooms or contaminants that can prompt advisories. There may be no lifeguards at public accesses, and private property lines limit entry in some areas, so checking local access rules and current water-quality or safety notices is advisable before swimming.