Lake Francis Case — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Francis Case, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Francis Case today is 9.6°C.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| APR 11 | 5.8°C | 8.5°C | |
| APR 12 | 6.0°C | 8.5°C | |
| APR 13 | 6.0°C | 8.5°C | |
| APR 14 | 7.4°C | 8.5°C | |
| APR 15 | 8.3°C | 8.5°C | |
| APR 16 | 8.1°C | 8.5°C | |
| APR 17 | 9.2°C | 8.5°C | |
| APR 18 | 9.6°C | 8.5°C | |
| APR 19 | 8.5°C | 9.5°C | |
| APR 20 | 8.5°C | 9.5°C | |
| APR 21 | 8.5°C | 9.4°C | |
| APR 22 | 8.5°C | 9.4°C | |
| APR 23 | 8.5°C | 9.3°C | |
| APR 24 | 8.5°C | 9.3°C | |
| APR 25 | 8.5°C | 9.2°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 | 0°C | 2°C | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 5°C | 10°C |
| March | 0°C | 5°C | 9°C |
| April | 4°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| May | 11°C | 16°C | 21°C |
| June | 15°C | 20°C | 25°C |
| July | 20°C | 27°C | 33°C |
| August | 23°C | 27°C | 30°C |
| September | 19°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| October | 13°C | 17°C | 20°C |
| November | 4°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| December | 1°C | 5°C | 9°C |
Lake Francis Case: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Francis Case: Weather Forecast
April 18
April 19
April 20
April 21
April 22
April 23
Location & Local Information
Lake Francis Case, a large Missouri River reservoir in South Dakota, experiences pronounced seasonal water temperature changes. In summer the surface often warms into the low 70s to low 80s °F (about 21–28 °C), with shallow bays sometimes reaching the upper 70s to mid‑80s °F (25–29 °C) during heat waves. Spring and early summer see much cooler conditions, commonly in the 40s to mid‑60s °F (4–18 °C) as snowmelt and inflow dominate, while autumn brings a steady decline into the 50s to low 60s °F (10–17 °C) before winter ice forms. Winter surface temperatures hover near freezing, about 32–39 °F (0–4 °C), and deeper water remains colder year‑round, so thermal layering and cold water pockets can be significant even during warm months.
Swimming at Lake Francis Case is generally permitted, especially at designated recreation areas and beaches managed by local authorities and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, but conditions and rules vary by site. People commonly swim in summer when surface temperatures are comfortable, yet swimmers should be aware of hazards such as boat traffic, sudden drop‑offs, submerged structures, strong currents near dam and inlet areas, and the absence of lifeguards at many spots. Water quality and occasional algal or debris issues can prompt advisories, so checking local notices and using caution—particularly to avoid cold‑water shock in cooler seasons—is recommended.