Lake Sakakawea — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Sakakawea, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Sakakawea today is 17.1°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| JUN 23 | 16.6°C | 17.5°C | |
| JUN 24 | 16.3°C | 17.5°C | |
| JUN 25 | 16.3°C | 17.5°C | |
| JUN 26 | 17.1°C | 17.5°C | |
| JUN 27 | 17.8°C | 17.5°C | |
| JUN 28 | 18.0°C | 17.5°C | |
| JUN 29 | 18.1°C | 17.5°C | |
| JUN 30 | 17.1°C | 17.5°C | |
| JUL 1 | 20.0°C | 17.2°C | |
| JUL 2 | 20.0°C | 17.4°C | |
| JUL 3 | 20.0°C | 17.5°C | |
| JUL 4 | 20.0°C | 17.7°C | |
| JUL 5 | 20.0°C | 17.8°C | |
| JUL 6 | 20.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 7 | 20.0°C | 18.1°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 | 6°C | 12°C |
| February | 0°C | 8°C | 15°C |
| March | 0°C | 9°C | 17°C |
| April | 1°C | 11°C | 20°C |
| May | 7°C | 14°C | 21°C |
| June | 13°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| August | 19°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| September | 17°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| October | 5°C | 11°C | 17°C |
| November | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| December | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
Lake Sakakawea: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Sakakawea: Weather Forecast
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Location & Local Information
Lake Sakakawea is a large reservoir in North Dakota that experiences pronounced seasonal shifts in surface water temperature. During the winter months the lake typically freezes and surface temperatures hover around the freezing point (about 32°F / 0°C). In spring the water warms slowly, often ranging from roughly 40–60°F (4–16°C) as ice melts and runoff influences temperatures. The warmest period is mid to late summer, when surface readings commonly reach about 65–80°F (18–27°C) on calm, sunny days; by early autumn temperatures fall back toward the 40–60°F (4–16°C) range as air cools and mixing increases.
Swimming is generally permitted at public access sites and recreation areas on Lake Sakakawea because the reservoir is managed for multiple recreational uses. However, conditions vary: the warm window for comfortable swimming is fairly short, and even in summer the water can feel chilly below the surface. Safety considerations include cold-water shock, boat traffic, steep drop-offs, currents near river channels and the dam, limited lifeguard coverage at many sites, and occasional water-quality advisories such as algal blooms. Visitors should check local guidance, choose designated swimming areas, and be cautious about temperature and water conditions before entering.