Lesser Slave Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lesser Slave Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lesser Slave Lake today is 11.3°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 14 | 13.4°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 15 | 13.1°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 16 | 13.1°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 17 | 12.7°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 18 | 12.0°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 19 | 11.8°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 20 | 11.6°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 22 | 16.0°C | 11.5°C | |
| SEP 23 | 16.0°C | 11.8°C | |
| SEP 24 | 16.0°C | 12.0°C | |
| SEP 25 | 16.0°C | 12.2°C | |
| SEP 26 | 16.0°C | 12.5°C | |
| SEP 27 | 16.0°C | 12.7°C | |
| SEP 28 | 16.0°C | 12.9°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 | 3°C | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 4°C |
| March | 0°C | 3°C | 5°C |
| April | 0°C | 5°C | 11°C |
| May | 4°C | 8°C | 15°C |
| June | 7°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| July | 15°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| August | 17°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| September | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| October | 7°C | 12°C | 16°C |
| November | 3°C | 6°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Lesser Slave Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Lesser Slave Lake: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
September 26
Location & Local Information
Lesser Slave Lake, the largest lake entirely within Alberta, is a shallow, large body of water heavily influenced by the northern Boreal climate. The lake’s shallow depth allows the water to warm up significantly in the summer compared to deeper lakes. During the peak summer months, from July to August, the surface water typically reaches a comfortable temperature range for swimming, often peaking around 20∘C to 23∘C (68∘F to 73∘F). Conversely, the winter months bring frigid conditions, with temperatures dropping to the range of 0∘C to 5∘C (32∘F to 41∘F), and the lake is typically frozen over for several months.
Swimming is widely permitted and encouraged in Lesser Slave Lake, as the lake is a major recreational destination. The beautiful, natural sand beaches at Devonshire Beach within Lesser Slave Lake Provincial Park are recognized as excellent spots for swimming and sunbathing, confirming it is an expected activity. However, there are no official lifeguards on duty at the public beaches, meaning all swimming is done at one's own risk. Swimmers must also check for Blue-Green Algae (Cyanobacteria) Advisories, which are often issued by Alberta Health Services during warm periods. These advisories warn against swimming in visible blooms due to potential toxins, although the water can be used for recreation where blooms are not visible.