Lake Whitewood — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Whitewood, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Whitewood today is 12.2°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 | 13.9°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 14.0°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 12.9°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.7°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 13.1°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 12.8°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 11.8°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 12.0°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 12.0°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 14 | 12.0°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 15 | 12.0°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 16 | 12.0°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 17 | 12.0°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 18 | 12.0°C | 12.1°C | |
| OCT 19 | 12.0°C | 12.1°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 | 7°C | 12°C |
| February | 0°C | 8°C | 15°C |
| March | 1°C | 9°C | 17°C |
| April | 2°C | 11°C | 20°C |
| May | 7°C | 15°C | 23°C |
| June | 14°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| July | 17°C | 23°C | 29°C |
| August | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| September | 17°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| October | 5°C | 12°C | 19°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| December | 0°C | 5°C | 8°C |
Lake Whitewood: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Whitewood: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Lake Whitewood, like many small inland lakes in eastern South Dakota, experiences strong seasonal swings in surface water temperature. In winter the surface typically reaches near freezing and often forms ice, around 32°F (0°C) or lower. Spring warming commonly produces surface temperatures in the 40–60°F (4–15°C) range as runoff and air temperatures shift. Peak summer surface readings are most often in the neighborhood of 68–78°F (20–26°C), occasionally climbing into the low 80s°F (27–28°C) on very hot, shallow areas. In autumn the water cools back through roughly 50–65°F (10–18°C) before freezing begins again. Deeper water remains colder year-round, and temperature can vary considerably with weather, wind and lake depth.
Swimming at Lake Whitewood is typically possible during the warmer months when surface temperatures are comfortable for recreation—generally late spring through early fall—because the water reaches temperatures suitable for bathing and the area is managed for public use. However, whether swimming is allowed at any given time depends on local rules, posted signage and water-quality conditions; advisories or closures may be issued for harmful algal blooms, bacterial contamination, unsafe weather or low visibility, and ice makes winter swimming hazardous. Visitors should check local guidance and consider cold-water shock and depth before entering.