Gull Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Gull Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Gull Lake today is 52°F.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 50°F (10°C) to 54°F (12°C). The water is slightly warmer, but still cool for most people. Swimming in such conditions is possible, but for most people, the time spent in the water should be limited to avoid hypothermia. Even experienced swimmers may feel discomfort if they stay in the water for too long. To improve comfort and safety, a wetsuit can be used. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAY 6 | 50°F | 57°F | |
| MAY 7 | 50°F | 57°F | |
| MAY 8 | 48°F | 57°F | |
| MAY 9 | 48°F | 57°F | |
| MAY 10 | 50°F | 57°F | |
| MAY 11 | 50°F | 57°F | |
| MAY 12 | 50°F | 57°F | |
| MAY 13 | 52°F | 57°F | |
| MAY 14 | 57°F | 52°F | |
| MAY 15 | 57°F | 52°F | |
| MAY 16 | 57°F | 53°F | |
| MAY 17 | 57°F | 53°F | |
| MAY 18 | 57°F | 53°F | |
| MAY 19 | 57°F | 53°F | |
| MAY 20 | 57°F | 54°F |
* 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 | 36°F | 45°F | 54°F |
| February | 36°F | 47°F | 59°F |
| March | 32°F | 47°F | 63°F |
| April | 34°F | 51°F | 68°F |
| May | 43°F | 57°F | 70°F |
| June | 57°F | 64°F | 72°F |
| July | 63°F | 67°F | 72°F |
| August | 70°F | 76°F | 82°F |
| September | 63°F | 67°F | 72°F |
| October | 41°F | 53°F | 64°F |
| November | 39°F | 46°F | 52°F |
| December | 39°F | 46°F | 52°F |
Gull Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Gull Lake: Weather Forecast
May 14
May 15
May 16
May 17
May 18
May 19
Location & Local Information
Gull Lake in central Minnesota experiences a wide seasonal swing in water temperature. After ice-out in spring, surface temperatures typically climb from the 40s to the 50s °F (4–15 °C) as the lake stratifies. By midsummer the top layer often reaches the upper 60s to low 80s °F (20–28 °C), making late June through August the warmest period for recreational use. In autumn the surface cools back into the 50s and 60s °F (10–18 °C) before the lake freezes; winter brings ice cover with surface temperatures at or near freezing (about 32 °F / 0 °C) while water below the ice remains somewhat warmer due to thermal stratification.
Swimming is generally allowed at Gull Lake and is a common summertime activity, particularly at public beaches and maintained swimming areas where water quality is monitored and safety measures may be in place. Local authorities may post advisories or close beaches temporarily for issues such as harmful algal blooms or unsafe conditions, and swimmers should be mindful of cold shock risk early and late in the season, variable depths, and boat traffic. Observing posted signs and following local guidance helps ensure a safe swimming experience.