Lake Bemidji — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Bemidji, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Bemidji today is 12.4°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 | 13.9°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 13.9°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 12.8°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.0°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 13.0°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 12.6°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 10.8°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 11.0°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 11.5°C | 12.4°C | |
| OCT 14 | 11.5°C | 12.3°C | |
| OCT 15 | 11.5°C | 12.3°C | |
| OCT 16 | 11.5°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 17 | 11.5°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 18 | 11.5°C | 12.1°C | |
| OCT 19 | 11.5°C | 12.1°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 | 2°C | 11°C | 20°C |
| May | 2°C | 12°C | 21°C |
| June | 12°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| August | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| September | 16°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| October | 5°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
Lake Bemidji: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Bemidji: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Lake Bemidji in northern Minnesota experiences a wide annual variation in surface water temperature. In spring, as the ice melts, surface temperatures typically range from about 40–60°F (4–16°C). By mid to late summer, surface temperatures commonly reach roughly 68–78°F (20–26°C) on warm days, though shallow bays can be warmer and deeper spots a few degrees cooler. In early fall temperatures fall back into the 50–65°F (10–18°C) range before the lake begins to cool toward winter. Once the lake freezes, surface ice and near-surface water are around the freezing point, about 32°F (0°C), while water below the ice will generally be slightly warmer, approaching the typical 39°F (4°C) density maximum for freshwater.
Swimming in Lake Bemidji is allowed and is a popular summer activity at designated city and park beaches, but conditions determine whether it is advisable. Seasonal water temperatures influence comfort and hypothermia risk—early summer and cooler evenings can feel chilly even when daytime highs are warm. Local authorities periodically monitor water quality and may issue advisories or close swimming areas for harmful algal blooms or bacterial contamination, so swimmers should follow posted signage and guidance. Lifeguard coverage varies by site and season, so personal safety precautions are recommended.