Little Vermilion Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Little Vermilion Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Little Vermilion Lake today is 11.9°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 6 | 13.7°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 12.6°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.0°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 12.6°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 12.5°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 10.5°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 12.2°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 14 | 11.0°C | 11.9°C | |
| OCT 15 | 11.0°C | 11.8°C | |
| OCT 16 | 11.0°C | 11.8°C | |
| OCT 17 | 11.0°C | 11.7°C | |
| OCT 18 | 11.0°C | 11.7°C | |
| OCT 19 | 11.0°C | 11.6°C | |
| OCT 20 | 11.0°C | 11.6°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 | 7°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 7°C |
| March | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| April | 1°C | 6°C | 10°C |
| May | 2°C | 11°C | 19°C |
| June | 11°C | 19°C | 27°C |
| July | 17°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| August | 19°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| September | 16°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| October | 6°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 1°C | 4°C | 8°C |
Little Vermilion Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Little Vermilion Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Little Vermilion Lake in Minnesota follows the familiar seasonal thermal cycle of northern lakes. In early spring the surface water is cold, often ranging from about 35–55°F (2–13°C) as snowmelt and cool air keep temperatures low. By midsummer, surface temperatures commonly warm to roughly 65–75°F (18–24°C), and during heat spells can climb into the upper 70s to around 80°F (25–27°C). As autumn arrives the lake cools again into the 50–65°F (10–18°C) range before ice formation in winter brings surface water to near freezing, about 32°F (0°C) with sub-ice layers typically around 34–36°F (1–2°C).
Recreational swimming at Little Vermilion is generally allowed because it is a publicly accessible inland lake used for boating and shore recreation, but local rules, posted signs and public health advisories determine specific access. Seasonal factors affect safety and comfort: cold spring and late‑fall temperatures create a risk of cold shock and hypothermia, while warm summer conditions can favor algae or bacterial blooms that occasionally prompt advisories against swimming. Visitors should check current water quality notices, look for designated swim areas or beaches, and use standard safety practices such as wearing a life jacket and avoiding swimming alone.