Lake Francis — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Francis, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Francis today is 14.7°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 | 16.5°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 15.2°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 14.7°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 15.5°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 15.3°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 15.0°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 14.1°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 14.2°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 13.0°C | 14.6°C | |
| OCT 14 | 13.0°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 15 | 13.0°C | 14.4°C | |
| OCT 16 | 13.0°C | 14.4°C | |
| OCT 17 | 13.0°C | 14.3°C | |
| OCT 18 | 13.0°C | 14.2°C | |
| OCT 19 | 13.0°C | 14.1°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 | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| February | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| March | 0°C | 4°C | 9°C |
| April | 3°C | 9°C | 16°C |
| May | 10°C | 15°C | 21°C |
| June | 15°C | 21°C | 27°C |
| July | 20°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| August | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| September | 18°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| October | 6°C | 13°C | 20°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 1°C | 4°C | 8°C |
Lake Francis: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Francis: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Lake Francis, like many small lakes in Minnesota, experiences marked seasonal shifts in surface water temperature. In spring, as ice melts, surface readings commonly range from roughly 38–60°F (3–16°C) depending on air temperatures and recent runoff. By midsummer the surface typically warms to about 68–78°F (20–26°C) on sunny, calm days, although deeper or shaded bays stay cooler. During autumn the water cools back into the 50–65°F (10–18°C) band as air temperatures fall and winds mix the water column. In winter the lake usually freezes and surface temperatures sit at or just above freezing, near 32°F (0°C) under ice; liquid water beneath the ice is slightly warmer but still close to freezing.
Swimming is generally allowed at public access points and private shorelines provided no local advisories are posted, but conditions determine whether it’s advisable. Summer temperatures are most comfortable for recreational swimming, while spring and fall waters can be uncomfortably cold and pose cold-shock risk. Potential water-quality issues such as harmful algal blooms or elevated bacterial counts can lead authorities to recommend avoiding contact, and winter ice cover makes traditional swimming unsafe except for experienced, prepared ice-swimmers using appropriate safety measures. Local postings and conditions should be checked before entering the water.