Lake Minnewawa — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Minnewawa, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Minnewawa today is 49°F.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAY 6 | 48°F | 55°F | |
| MAY 7 | 46°F | 55°F | |
| MAY 8 | 46°F | 55°F | |
| MAY 9 | 48°F | 55°F | |
| MAY 10 | 48°F | 55°F | |
| MAY 11 | 48°F | 55°F | |
| MAY 12 | 48°F | 55°F | |
| MAY 13 | 49°F | 55°F | |
| MAY 14 | 55°F | 50°F | |
| MAY 15 | 55°F | 50°F | |
| MAY 16 | 55°F | 50°F | |
| MAY 17 | 55°F | 51°F | |
| MAY 18 | 55°F | 51°F | |
| MAY 19 | 55°F | 51°F | |
| MAY 20 | 55°F | 51°F |
* 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 | 32°F | 34°F | 39°F |
| February | 32°F | 35°F | 39°F |
| March | 32°F | 35°F | 39°F |
| April | 34°F | 43°F | 50°F |
| May | 45°F | 55°F | 66°F |
| June | 57°F | 69°F | 81°F |
| July | 68°F | 74°F | 81°F |
| August | 68°F | 75°F | 82°F |
| September | 63°F | 68°F | 73°F |
| October | 43°F | 54°F | 64°F |
| November | 37°F | 46°F | 54°F |
| December | 34°F | 38°F | 43°F |
Lake Minnewawa: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Minnewawa: Weather Forecast
May 14
May 15
May 16
May 17
May 18
May 19
Location & Local Information
Lake Minnewawa in Minnesota experiences marked seasonal swings in surface water temperature. In spring (April–May) temperatures typically climb from near freezing after ice-out to roughly 40–60°F (4–15°C). Summer (June–August) brings the warmest conditions, with surface readings commonly 65–80°F (18–27°C) and shallower bays occasionally reaching the low 80s°F (27–28°C) on hot days. By September and October temperatures usually fall to about 50–65°F (10–18°C) as cooling and turnover occur. In winter the lake largely freezes and surface water at openings is near 32°F (0°C), making immersion dangerous except for managed ice activities.
Swimming is generally possible and popular during the warm months when the surface temperature is in the mid 60s to upper 70s°F (18–26°C), but availability depends on local access, posted rules, and water-quality advisories. Public beaches or private shorelines may be open for swimming from late spring through early fall; however, restrictions are common during algal blooms, heavy runoff, or when lifeguards are absent. Cold-water immersions outside summer months carry risks of hypothermia even at temperatures well above freezing, so most recreational swimming is limited to the warmer season and to monitored sites for safety.