Manistee Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Manistee Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Manistee Lake today is 12.7°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 | 14.4°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 14.8°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 14.3°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.6°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 14.0°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 13.8°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 12.9°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 13.5°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 15.0°C | 12.8°C | |
| OCT 14 | 15.0°C | 12.9°C | |
| OCT 15 | 15.0°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 16 | 15.0°C | 13.2°C | |
| OCT 17 | 15.0°C | 13.3°C | |
| OCT 18 | 15.0°C | 13.4°C | |
| OCT 19 | 15.0°C | 13.5°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 | 1°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| February | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| March | 0°C | 3°C | 5°C |
| April | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| May | 7°C | 15°C | 23°C |
| June | 14°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| July | 16°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| August | 19°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| September | 12°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| October | 12°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| November | 0°C | 6°C | 12°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 5°C |
Manistee Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Manistee Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Manistee Lake in Michigan experiences marked seasonal variation in surface water temperature. In spring the lake typically runs cool, often in the 40s to low 60s °F (about 4–16 °C) as snowmelt and runoff keep waters chilly. Summer surface temperatures commonly rise into the mid-60s to mid-70s °F (roughly 18–24 °C) in warm seasons, and shallow, sheltered bays can warm a few degrees higher on hot, calm days. Fall sees a steady cooling back into the 50s–60s °F (10–16 °C) before winter brings temperatures down to near freezing, with surface ice forming when air temperatures stay low enough (around 32 °F / 0 °C). Local weather, wind, depth and river inflows cause considerable variation across the lake and at different depths.
Swimming is generally permitted in areas where public access and signage indicate it is safe, but conditions and advisories should be checked before entering the water. Because Manistee Lake is connected to river channels and subject to boat traffic, currents and water quality can vary; occasional bacterial or algal advisories may restrict swimming for health reasons. Cold-water shock and hypothermia are real risks when temperatures are below typical comfortable swimming ranges, and winter ice makes swimming unsafe except under controlled, supervised events. Always follow posted rules, local health notices and basic water-safety practices.