Lake Carlos — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Carlos, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Carlos today is 12.5°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 | 14.9°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 13.9°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 12.6°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.5°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 13.5°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 12.8°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 12.7°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 12.9°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 11.5°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 14 | 11.5°C | 12.4°C | |
| OCT 15 | 11.5°C | 12.4°C | |
| OCT 16 | 11.5°C | 12.3°C | |
| OCT 17 | 11.5°C | 12.3°C | |
| OCT 18 | 11.5°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 19 | 11.5°C | 12.2°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 | 9°C | 15°C |
| March | 0°C | 9°C | 17°C |
| April | 2°C | 11°C | 20°C |
| May | 5°C | 13°C | 21°C |
| June | 14°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| July | 17°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| August | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| September | 17°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| October | 5°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
Lake Carlos: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Carlos: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Lake Carlos, located in west-central Minnesota and bordered in part by Lake Carlos State Park, shows the same seasonal water temperature patterns typical of inland lakes in the region. During summer months surface temperatures commonly range from about 70–80°F (21–27°C), with early summer often cooler around 60–70°F (15–21°C) as the lake warms. In spring and fall the surface is substantially cooler, roughly 40–60°F (4–15°C) depending on the exact month and weather, and in winter the lake is ice-covered with water at or just above 32°F (0°C) beneath the ice. Brief heat waves can push surface readings a few degrees higher in shallow bays, while deep or shaded areas remain cooler.
Swimming at Lake Carlos is permitted in the warmer months at public beaches and recreational areas associated with the state park and nearby resorts, which is why the summer surface temperatures are most relevant for casual swimmers. Seasonal beach openings and advisories may be posted, and water quality or algal blooms can occasionally restrict access. Outside the warm season, water is cold enough to present cold-shock and hypothermia risks, and ice conditions in winter make unregulated swimming unsafe, so swimmers should follow posted guidance and exercise usual safety precautions.