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Lake Traverse — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast

This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Traverse, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.

Big Stone Lake, United States
Big Stone Lake, United States © By McGhiever, CC BY-SA 3.0

Current Water Temperature

26.8°C
Today
25.0°C
Yesterday
24.2°C
A Week Ago
Get instant access to real-time water temperatures for this and all other locations with our iOS and Android apps.

Water Temperature in Lake Traverse today is 26.8°C.

Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 79°F (26°C) to 82°F (28°C). This is very warm water, allowing for extended stays without any discomfort. Swimming in these conditions will be particularly enjoyable, making it the ideal temperature range for those who want to relax in the sea. Additionally, water in this temperature range is suitable for children and elderly people, as it is comfortable for prolonged stays. 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

From August 1 to September 1

Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data

Date Current Average Forecast
AUG 2424.2°C24.0°C
AUG 2524.0°C24.0°C
AUG 2624.2°C24.0°C
AUG 2724.3°C24.0°C
AUG 2824.1°C24.0°C
AUG 2925.0°C24.0°C
AUG 3025.0°C24.0°C
AUG 3125.3°C24.0°C
SEP 119.0°C26.4°C
SEP 219.0°C26.0°C
SEP 319.0°C25.6°C
SEP 419.0°C25.2°C
SEP 519.0°C24.9°C
SEP 619.0°C24.5°C
SEP 719.0°C24.1°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
January1°C7°C12°C
February1°C8°C15°C
March0°C9°C17°C
April3°C12°C20°C
May7°C15°C21°C
June15°C19°C24°C
July17°C23°C29°C
August20°C24°C28°C
September16°C19°C22°C
October5°C12°C18°C
November4°C7°C9°C
December2°C7°C11°C

Lake Traverse: Water Temperature by Location

Lake Traverse: Weather Forecast

September 1

° / °
overcast
rain: 2% | wind:

September 2

° / °
moderate drizzle
rain: 37% | wind:

September 3

° / °
moderate drizzle
rain: 33% | wind:

September 4

° / °
light drizzle
rain: 3% | wind:

September 5

° / °
overcast
rain: 11% | wind:

September 6

° / °
overcast
rain: 20% | wind:

Location & Local Information

Lake Traverse follows the seasonal temperature patterns typical of Minnesota inland lakes. During winter the surface is usually at or just above freezing, around 32–38°F (0–3°C) under ice cover, with slightly warmer, denser water near 39°F (4°C) at depth. Spring turnover brings surface readings up into the 40s and 50s°F (4–15°C) as the water mixes. In summer surface temperatures often reach the warmest range, commonly about 68–82°F (20–28°C) on sunny, calm days, though deeper or shaded areas stay cooler. By fall the lake cools back into the 50s and 60s°F (10–18°C) before re‑freezing, with a steady decline as air temperatures drop.

Swimming on Lake Traverse is generally allowed where there is public access and no posted restrictions, as it is a publicly accessible water body. Summer conditions are most favorable for recreational swimming because surface temperatures are warm enough for comfort, while spring and late fall can be chilly and increase the risk of cold‑water shock. In winter the ice may allow activities like ice fishing or skating only if thickness and local guidance indicate it is safe; open‑water swimming is unsafe. As with any lake, swimmers should verify local water quality advisories, obey signage, and use standard water‑safety precautions.

Nearby Lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Lake Traverse?
Water Temperature in Lake Traverse today is 26.8°C.
What is the water temperature in Lake Traverse during the summer months?
The water temperature in Lake Traverse in summer fluctuates in the range of 15°C - 29°C.
Is it possible to swim in Lake Traverse and what are the possibilities for this?
Yes, it is possible to swim in Lake Traverse, located between Minnesota and South Dakota. Opportunities stem from public access points, resorts, and parks surrounding the lake which offer suitable swimming environments.