Lake Winnibigoshish — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Winnibigoshish, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Winnibigoshish today is 16°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 14 | 15.7°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 15 | 15.5°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 16 | 15.8°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 17 | 15.5°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 18 | 15.6°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 19 | 15.3°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 20 | 14.5°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 21 | 16.0°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 22 | 18.5°C | 16.1°C | |
| SEP 23 | 18.5°C | 16.3°C | |
| SEP 24 | 18.5°C | 16.4°C | |
| SEP 25 | 18.5°C | 16.5°C | |
| SEP 26 | 18.5°C | 16.6°C | |
| SEP 27 | 18.5°C | 16.8°C | |
| SEP 28 | 18.5°C | 16.9°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 | 3°C | 12°C | 21°C |
| June | 12°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| August | 19°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| September | 15°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| October | 5°C | 11°C | 17°C |
| November | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 6°C | 11°C |
Lake Winnibigoshish: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Winnibigoshish: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
Lake Winnibigoshish (often called Lake Winnie) in north-central Minnesota experiences pronounced seasonal swings in surface water temperature because of its northern location and large, shallow basins. In winter the lake is typically ice-covered and surface waters sit at or just above freezing, around 32°F (0°C). During spring thaw surface temperatures commonly climb from the mid‑30s to the mid‑50s °F (about 2–13°C) as the water mixes and warms. The warmest period is midsummer, when surface readings on sunny days often range from roughly 65–75°F (18–24°C), with occasional pockets reaching the upper 70s °F (around 25–26°C) in sheltered bays. In autumn temperatures decline back through the 50s to 40s °F (10–7°C) as cooling and turnover set in.
Swimming is generally allowed and practiced at public access sites, resorts, and shoreline areas around the lake, but suitability depends on season and conditions. The main recreational swimming window is summer when surface temperatures are most comfortable; outside that period cold water limits safe immersion and increases risk of hypothermia or cold shock. Local water-quality or algae advisories can also temporarily restrict swimming, and swimmers should use common-sense safety measures such as life jackets, avoiding lone swims in cold water, and heeding posted notices from local authorities.