Knife Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Knife Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Knife Lake today is 49°F.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 47°F (8°C) to 50°F (10°C). This is still cool water, suitable only for experienced swimmers or those accustomed to cold water. Swimming in such conditions is possible, but not recommended for prolonged periods. Extra caution should be taken during extended exposure, as the cold water can cause heat loss and lead to hypothermia. For added comfort, special clothing 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 | 53°F | 59°F | |
| MAY 7 | 51°F | 59°F | |
| MAY 8 | 49°F | 59°F | |
| MAY 9 | 49°F | 59°F | |
| MAY 10 | 49°F | 59°F | |
| MAY 11 | 49°F | 59°F | |
| MAY 12 | 49°F | 59°F | |
| MAY 13 | 49°F | 59°F | |
| MAY 14 | 59°F | 50°F | |
| MAY 15 | 59°F | 50°F | |
| MAY 16 | 59°F | 51°F | |
| MAY 17 | 59°F | 51°F | |
| MAY 18 | 59°F | 52°F | |
| MAY 19 | 59°F | 52°F | |
| MAY 20 | 59°F | 53°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 | 32°F | 38°F | 45°F |
| February | 32°F | 38°F | 46°F |
| March | 32°F | 39°F | 46°F |
| April | 36°F | 46°F | 57°F |
| May | 48°F | 59°F | 70°F |
| June | 61°F | 71°F | 81°F |
| July | 70°F | 75°F | 81°F |
| August | 70°F | 76°F | 82°F |
| September | 64°F | 69°F | 73°F |
| October | 43°F | 55°F | 66°F |
| November | 37°F | 46°F | 54°F |
| December | 34°F | 39°F | 46°F |
Knife Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Knife Lake: Weather Forecast
May 14
May 15
May 16
May 17
May 18
May 19
Location & Local Information
Knife Lake in Minnesota generally follows the seasonal temperature patterns typical of northern inland lakes. In summer the surface water commonly warms to roughly 65–75°F (18–24°C), with shallow bays occasionally reaching the upper 70s°F (around 25–27°C) on hot sunny days. Spring is a transition period when water temperatures climb from near-freezing after ice-out to about 50–60°F (10–15°C). In fall the lake cools back through the 40s and 50s°F (4–15°C) before ice forms. During winter the lake is usually ice-covered and the water beneath the ice remains near 32–39°F (0–4°C), with the coldest near-surface waters at the freezing point.
Swimming in Knife Lake is feasible during the open-water months and is commonly done when surface temperatures are comfortable in the mid‑60s°F (around 18°C) and warmer. There are no universal bans on casual swimming, but users should observe local signage, water-quality advisories and private-property rules. Cooler water below about 60°F (15–16°C) can cause discomfort and increase risk of cold-water shock, so caution is advised early and late in the season. Ice-covered conditions make normal swimming unsafe except with specialized cold‑water or ice‑swimming practices and appropriate safety measures.