Leech Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Leech Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Leech Lake today is 11.8°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 50°F (10°C) to 54°F (12°C). The water is slightly warmer, but still cool for most people. Swimming in such conditions is possible, but for most people, the time spent in the water should be limited to avoid hypothermia. Even experienced swimmers may feel discomfort if they stay in the water for too long. To improve comfort and safety, a wetsuit can be used. 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 | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 13.5°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 12.2°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 12.7°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 12.6°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 12.3°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 10.4°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 10.6°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 11.5°C | 11.8°C | |
| OCT 14 | 11.5°C | 11.8°C | |
| OCT 15 | 11.5°C | 11.8°C | |
| OCT 16 | 11.5°C | 11.7°C | |
| OCT 17 | 11.5°C | 11.7°C | |
| OCT 18 | 11.5°C | 11.7°C | |
| OCT 19 | 11.5°C | 11.7°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 | 2°C | 12°C | 21°C |
| June | 13°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| August | 20°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| September | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| October | 5°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 1°C | 6°C | 11°C |
Leech Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Leech Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Leech Lake in north-central Minnesota experiences a wide range of water temperatures through the year. In spring the surface often runs cool, roughly 40–60°F (4–16°C) as snowmelt and spring runoff keep water chilly. Peak summer months commonly see surface temperatures in the upper 60s to upper 70s, roughly 68–78°F (20–26°C), with occasional warm spells pushing toward 80°F (27°C). By early fall the lake cools back into the 50s–60s°F range (10–18°C) as air temperatures drop. In winter the lake usually freezes over and any remaining open water or water beneath the ice sits at or just above freezing, typically about 32–39°F (0–4°C).
Swimming is allowed at many public beaches, resorts, and shoreline access points around Leech Lake and is a common recreational activity during the warm months, but it is subject to local rules and posted advisories. Cold water in spring and late fall presents a risk of cold shock and hypothermia, so swimmers should be cautious outside the warmest weeks. Water-quality issues such as elevated bacteria or harmful algal blooms can lead to temporary beach closures, so checking current advisories and following lifeguard or park guidance helps ensure safe swimming.