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.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Traverse today is 12.6°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 54°F (12°C) to 60°F (15°C). The water is significantly warmer, and swimming becomes possible for most people. However, caution may still be required for prolonged stays in the water, as extended exposure can cause discomfort. This is a suitable temperature range for short swims and for those accustomed to cooler water. For more comfortable swimming, it is recommended to use proper gear. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 5 | 14.3°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 13.7°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 12.6°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.4°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 13.4°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 11.5°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 11.2°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 11.6°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 11.5°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 14 | 11.5°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 15 | 11.5°C | 12.4°C | |
| OCT 16 | 11.5°C | 12.4°C | |
| OCT 17 | 11.5°C | 12.3°C | |
| OCT 18 | 11.5°C | 12.3°C | |
| OCT 19 | 11.5°C | 12.2°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 | 1°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| February | 1°C | 8°C | 15°C |
| March | 0°C | 9°C | 17°C |
| April | 3°C | 12°C | 20°C |
| May | 7°C | 15°C | 21°C |
| June | 15°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| July | 17°C | 23°C | 29°C |
| August | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| September | 16°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| October | 5°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| November | 4°C | 7°C | 9°C |
| December | 2°C | 7°C | 11°C |
Lake Traverse: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Traverse: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
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.