Little Spirit Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Little Spirit Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Little Spirit Lake today is 12.4°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 | 14.6°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 14.3°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 12.4°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.5°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 13.6°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 13.3°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 12.3°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 12.7°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 12.5°C | 12.4°C | |
| OCT 14 | 12.5°C | 12.4°C | |
| OCT 15 | 12.5°C | 12.4°C | |
| OCT 16 | 12.5°C | 12.4°C | |
| OCT 17 | 12.5°C | 12.4°C | |
| OCT 18 | 12.5°C | 12.4°C | |
| OCT 19 | 12.5°C | 12.4°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 | 2°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| February | 3°C | 9°C | 15°C |
| March | 3°C | 10°C | 17°C |
| April | 5°C | 13°C | 20°C |
| May | 12°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| June | 16°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 22°C | 28°C |
| August | 22°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| September | 18°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| October | 5°C | 13°C | 20°C |
| November | 4°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| December | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
Little Spirit Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Little Spirit Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Little Spirit Lake in northwest Iowa experiences typical Midwestern seasonal water temperatures. In spring the lake often ranges from about 40–60°F (4–16°C) as runoff and cool air keep the water chilly. By summer surface temperatures commonly climb into the 70s and low 80s°F (21–28°C), with warmest afternoons occasionally approaching the mid‑80s°F (around 29°C) in hot years. Autumn brings a steady cooling back through the 50s–60s°F (10–16°C), and in winter the water drops toward freezing, near 32–39°F (0–4°C) where ice may form. These ranges can vary year to year depending on weather, wind, and lake depth.
Swimming at Little Spirit Lake is generally permitted in areas intended for public recreation, because it is a public inland lake used for multiple recreational purposes. Whether swimming is advisable depends on conditions: water quality advisories, nuisance algae, dense aquatic vegetation, strong currents near inlets, or ice in winter can make swimming unsafe or temporarily prohibited. In spring and late fall the water is often too cold for comfortable bathing and hypothermia is a risk; in warm summer months swimming is most common when local authorities report acceptable water quality and lifeguard or safety provisions are in place. Always follow posted signs and guidance from local agencies.