Higgins Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Higgins Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Higgins 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 | 13.6°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 13.6°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 13.3°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 12.4°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 13.3°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 12.9°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 11.9°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 12.1°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 14.5°C | 12.3°C | |
| OCT 14 | 14.5°C | 12.4°C | |
| OCT 15 | 14.5°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 16 | 14.5°C | 12.7°C | |
| OCT 17 | 14.5°C | 12.8°C | |
| OCT 18 | 14.5°C | 12.9°C | |
| OCT 19 | 14.5°C | 13.0°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 | 3°C | 6°C |
| February | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| March | 1°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| April | 2°C | 6°C | 11°C |
| May | 8°C | 13°C | 18°C |
| June | 14°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| July | 19°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| August | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| September | 17°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| October | 10°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
Higgins Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Higgins Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Higgins Lake in northern Michigan is a deep, clear lake, so its water temperatures vary noticeably through the year. In spring, surface temperatures commonly climb from the low 40s to mid-50s °F (around 5–13 °C) as ice melts and runoff cools the water. By early summer, surface readings often reach the 60s °F (16–20 °C), with midsummer surface temperatures typically in the high 60s to mid 70s °F (20–24 °C) and occasional warmer spikes in shallow bays. In late summer and early fall the surface generally falls back through the 60s °F (15–21 °C). Winter brings ice formation and temperatures near freezing at the surface, around 32–39 °F (0–4 °C).
Swimming is allowed at many public and private access points around Higgins Lake, and people commonly swim in summer months when surface temperatures are most comfortable. Because the lake is deep and very clear, however, water just below the surface can remain considerably colder, and sudden drops in temperature can increase the risk of cold shock and hypothermia. Visitors should choose sheltered, shallow areas for longer swims, be aware of posted local rules, and exercise caution when water is on the cooler end of the seasonal ranges.