Lake Melissa — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Melissa, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Melissa today is 17.2°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 60°F (15°C) to 65°F (18°C). The water is comfortable for most people, making it an ideal range for water sports enthusiasts. The temperature does not cause significant discomfort, and swimming will be pleasant for the majority. However, it's important to remember that prolonged exposure to the water can still lead to cooling, so it's essential to monitor the time spent in the water, especially for children or elderly people. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 14 | 20.0°C | 20.0°C | |
| SEP 15 | 19.0°C | 20.0°C | |
| SEP 16 | 18.9°C | 20.0°C | |
| SEP 17 | 18.5°C | 20.0°C | |
| SEP 18 | 17.3°C | 20.0°C | |
| SEP 19 | 17.4°C | 20.0°C | |
| SEP 20 | 16.6°C | 20.0°C | |
| SEP 21 | 17.2°C | 20.0°C | |
| SEP 22 | 20.0°C | 17.3°C | |
| SEP 23 | 20.0°C | 17.5°C | |
| SEP 24 | 20.0°C | 17.6°C | |
| SEP 25 | 20.0°C | 17.8°C | |
| SEP 26 | 20.0°C | 17.9°C | |
| SEP 27 | 20.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 28 | 20.0°C | 18.2°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 | 2°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| February | 3°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 | 13°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| July | 17°C | 22°C | 28°C |
| August | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| September | 16°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| October | 5°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| November | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| December | 2°C | 7°C | 11°C |
Lake Melissa: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Melissa: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
Lake Melissa, like many small central-Minnesota lakes, shows clear seasonal swings in surface water temperature. In spring (April–May) surface temperatures typically climb from around 40–60°F (4–16°C) as ice melts and the lake mixes. During summer (June–August) the warmest near-surface waters often range from about 68–78°F (20–26°C), with shallow bays sometimes reaching the low 80s°F (27–28°C) on hot, calm days while deeper layers remain much cooler. In autumn (September–October) cooling returns, with surface readings commonly between 50–60°F (10–16°C). In winter the surface is at or near freezing (32°F / 0°C) beneath ice, while deeper water can remain around the density‑maximum near 39°F (4°C).
Swimming is generally possible and commonly done in warmer months when surface temperatures are in the 68–78°F (20–26°C) range, provided shoreline access and local rules permit it. Local public beaches or private shorelines may allow swimming, but conditions vary: water-quality advisories for harmful algal blooms or bacteria, submerged hazards, and cold‑water shock early or late in the season can limit safe swimming. Ice cover in winter makes open‑water swimming unsafe except for supervised, specialized activities. Always check current local advisories and access rules before entering the water.