Machickanee Flowage Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Machickanee Flowage Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Machickanee Flowage Lake today is 17.9°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 | 19.3°C | 17.7°C | |
| SEP 15 | 19.1°C | 17.7°C | |
| SEP 16 | 18.6°C | 17.7°C | |
| SEP 17 | 19.3°C | 17.7°C | |
| SEP 18 | 18.6°C | 17.7°C | |
| SEP 19 | 18.9°C | 17.7°C | |
| SEP 20 | 18.7°C | 17.7°C | |
| SEP 21 | 17.9°C | 17.7°C | |
| SEP 22 | 17.7°C | 17.9°C | |
| SEP 23 | 17.7°C | 17.9°C | |
| SEP 24 | 17.7°C | 17.9°C | |
| SEP 25 | 17.7°C | 17.9°C | |
| SEP 26 | 17.7°C | 17.9°C | |
| SEP 27 | 17.7°C | 17.8°C | |
| SEP 28 | 17.7°C | 17.8°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 | 4°C | 7°C |
| February | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| March | 0°C | 3°C | 5°C |
| April | 1°C | 8°C | 15°C |
| May | 7°C | 15°C | 23°C |
| June | 16°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| July | 19°C | 25°C | 31°C |
| August | 21°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| September | 12°C | 18°C | 24°C |
| October | 13°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| November | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| December | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
Machickanee Flowage Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Machickanee Flowage Lake: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
Machickanee Flowage, like many northern Wisconsin flowages, shows distinct seasonal variation in surface water temperature. In spring the water typically runs cool as it thaws, often in the 40–60°F range (4–16°C) depending on air temperatures and ice-out timing. During summer months surface temperatures commonly warm to about 68–78°F (20–26°C), with shallow bays sometimes reaching the low 80s (27–28°C) on hot, calm spells. By early fall the lake usually cools to roughly 50–65°F (10–18°C) as nights lengthen, and in winter the surface falls to near freezing under ice cover, generally around 32–40°F (0–4°C). Deeper or shaded sections can remain noticeably cooler year-round, and stratification in warm months can leave bottom water in the 40s–50s°F (4–12°C).
Swimming in Machickanee Flowage is generally possible because it is public water used for multiple recreational purposes, and many visitors swim from shore, docks, or boats. However, there are no universal lifeguards and conditions can vary: submerged timber, aquatic plants, changing bottoms, boat traffic, and water-quality advisories may make particular spots unsuitable. Local signage, campground rules, or temporary advisories can restrict swimming at times, so checking posted information and exercising usual water-safety precautions is recommended.