Intermediate Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Intermediate Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Intermediate Lake today is 14.5°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 | 16.1°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 15.9°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 15.5°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 14.8°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 15.1°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 14.9°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 13.6°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 14.3°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 15.0°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 14 | 15.0°C | 14.6°C | |
| OCT 15 | 15.0°C | 14.6°C | |
| OCT 16 | 15.0°C | 14.6°C | |
| OCT 17 | 15.0°C | 14.6°C | |
| OCT 18 | 15.0°C | 14.7°C | |
| OCT 19 | 15.0°C | 14.7°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 | 4°C | 7°C |
| February | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| March | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| April | 3°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| May | 5°C | 14°C | 23°C |
| June | 12°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| July | 18°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| August | 21°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| September | 12°C | 19°C | 26°C |
| October | 11°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| November | 0°C | 6°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
Intermediate Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Intermediate Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Intermediate Lake, like many mid-Michigan inland lakes, undergoes pronounced seasonal temperature swings. In winter the surface typically approaches freezing, often around 32°F (0°C) with ice cover common; under-ice temperatures remain close to 32–39°F (0–4°C). Spring sees a gradual warming, generally from the mid-30s to mid-50s°F (about 2–13°C) as snowmelt and runoff cool the water. By summer the lake commonly reaches its warmest, often in the mid-60s to mid-70s°F (18–24°C) and on warm stretches sometimes approaching 80°F (27°C) at the shallowest, sun-exposed spots. Temperatures decline again in fall, typically falling into the 40s and 50s°F (7–15°C) as air temperatures drop and stratification breaks down.
Swimming in Intermediate Lake is allowed seasonally and is a common recreational activity where shoreline access or public beaches are present. Local rules, posted advisories, and private property rights can affect where swimming is permitted, and water-quality or algal-bloom notifications may temporarily restrict swimming. Practical considerations influence when people swim: water temperatures above roughly 70°F (21°C) feel comfortable for many swimmers, while colder springs and the near-freezing winter period make swimming impractical and potentially hazardous. As with any lake, swimmers should be mindful of sudden temperature changes below the surface, variable depths, and standard water-safety precautions.