Lake Minnetonka — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Minnetonka, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Minnetonka today is 18.1°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 65°F (18°C) to 68°F (20°C). This is already quite warm water, which is ideal for most people. Swimming becomes comfortable, and prolonged stays in the water do not cause discomfort. This temperature is perfect for family trips and for those who prefer warmer water. It is also comfortable for water sports such as surfing or swimming. 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 | 21.2°C | 20.6°C | |
| SEP 15 | 20.2°C | 20.6°C | |
| SEP 16 | 19.1°C | 20.6°C | |
| SEP 17 | 19.0°C | 20.6°C | |
| SEP 18 | 19.0°C | 20.6°C | |
| SEP 19 | 19.0°C | 20.6°C | |
| SEP 20 | 19.2°C | 20.6°C | |
| SEP 21 | 18.1°C | 20.6°C | |
| SEP 22 | 20.6°C | 18.2°C | |
| SEP 23 | 20.6°C | 18.4°C | |
| SEP 24 | 20.6°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 25 | 20.6°C | 18.6°C | |
| SEP 26 | 20.6°C | 18.7°C | |
| SEP 27 | 20.6°C | 18.9°C | |
| SEP 28 | 20.6°C | 19.0°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 | 3°C | 6°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| March | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| April | 3°C | 8°C | 14°C |
| May | 10°C | 16°C | 23°C |
| June | 17°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| July | 21°C | 25°C | 30°C |
| August | 19°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| September | 18°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| October | 6°C | 13°C | 19°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 1°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Lake Minnetonka: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Minnetonka: Weather Forecast
September 21
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
September 26
Location & Local Information
Lake Minnetonka’s surface temperatures follow a clear seasonal pattern. In spring the water typically runs cool, roughly 40–60°F (4–15°C) as ice melts and ambient temperatures rise. Summer brings the warmest conditions, with many shallow bays and nearshore areas reaching about 65–78°F (18–26°C) on warm days, while deeper spots remain a few degrees cooler. During fall the lake cools again to roughly 45–65°F (7–18°C) as air temperatures drop and mixing increases. In winter the surface often approaches freezing, about 32–40°F (0–4°C), and extensive ice cover can form during sustained cold periods, keeping the underlying water just above freezing.
Swimming is allowed at Lake Minnetonka, particularly at designated public beaches and private waterfronts, because municipal and county parks provide access and local health agencies monitor conditions. However, swimmers should pay attention to posted advisories: bacterial contamination or harmful algal blooms can prompt temporary closures, and boat traffic, variable depths and vegetation affect safety. In winter, recreational ice activities occur where ice thickness is certified safe, but open‑water swimming is generally inadvisable because of cold‑water shock and restricted emergency access. Following posted guidance and checking current water quality and safety notices is recommended before entering the lake.