Horsehead Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Horsehead Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Horsehead Lake today is 11.8°C.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 5 | 12.9°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 12.1°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 11.9°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 12.3°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 11.7°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 10.9°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 10.6°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 11.5°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 10.5°C | 11.7°C | |
| OCT 14 | 10.5°C | 11.7°C | |
| OCT 15 | 10.5°C | 11.6°C | |
| OCT 16 | 10.5°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 17 | 10.5°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 18 | 10.5°C | 11.4°C | |
| OCT 19 | 10.5°C | 11.3°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 | 1°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| February | 1°C | 8°C | 15°C |
| March | 1°C | 9°C | 17°C |
| April | 1°C | 11°C | 20°C |
| May | 6°C | 14°C | 21°C |
| June | 15°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 22°C | 28°C |
| August | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| September | 15°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| October | 5°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| November | 3°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| December | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
Horsehead Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Horsehead Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Horsehead Lake in North Dakota typically follows the temperature patterns of shallow prairie lakes in the region. During spring (April–May) surface temperatures commonly sit around 35–55°F (2–13°C) as the water thaws and begins warming. In summer (June–August) the lake can reach roughly 60–75°F (16–24°C) at the surface on warm, sunny days, with the warmest pockets in shallower bays. By early fall (September–October) temperatures generally fall back to about 45–60°F (7–16°C) before the lake cools toward freeze-up. In winter the surface is usually at or near freezing (about 32°F / 0°C) and often ice-covered for an extended period.
Swimming is generally possible during the open-water season when the lake is ice-free and surface temperatures are in the comfortable summer range, but conditions and local rules determine whether it’s advisable. Water-quality issues such as algal blooms, elevated bacteria, or posted advisories can temporarily prohibit bathing, and there are inherent risks from cold-water shock or hypothermia outside peak summer months. Many users find summer afternoons the most suitable for swimming because temperatures are highest and ice and cold-weather hazards are absent, but it’s always wise to check local advisories and follow posted signs before entering the water.