Manitowish Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Manitowish Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Manitowish Lake today is 4.5°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges less than 41°F (5°C). Such water is extremely cold and not recommended for swimming without proper preparation. In these conditions, the risk of hypothermia is very high, and prolonged exposure to the water can be hazardous to your health. If you decide to swim, it is important to have the appropriate gear, such as a wetsuit. Typically, only experienced swimmers or those who practice winter swimming venture into such waters. 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 26 | 8.3°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 27 | 8.6°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 28 | 6.8°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 29 | 7.0°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 30 | 6.5°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 31 | 6.8°C | 13.0°C | |
| NOV 1 | 6.4°C | 8.5°C | |
| NOV 2 | 4.5°C | 8.5°C | |
| NOV 3 | 8.5°C | 4.7°C | |
| NOV 4 | 8.5°C | 4.9°C | |
| NOV 5 | 8.5°C | 5.1°C | |
| NOV 6 | 8.5°C | 5.3°C | |
| NOV 7 | 8.5°C | 5.5°C | |
| NOV 8 | 8.5°C | 5.7°C | |
| NOV 9 | 8.5°C | 5.9°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 | 2°C | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| March | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| April | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| May | 6°C | 12°C | 19°C |
| June | 12°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| July | 12°C | 20°C | 28°C |
| August | 17°C | 24°C | 30°C |
| September | 14°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| October | 9°C | 13°C | 17°C |
| November | 4°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Manitowish Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Manitowish Lake: Weather Forecast
November 3
November 4
November 5
November 6
November 7
Location & Local Information
Manitowish Lake in northern Wisconsin experiences pronounced seasonal changes in surface water temperature. In spring the lake is cold, typically ranging from about 40–55°F (4–13°C) as snowmelt and cool air keep the water brisk. By summer surface temperatures commonly rise to roughly 70–75°F (21–24°C), and on warm, calm stretches can reach the upper 70s to low 80s (26–28°C) in shallow bays. Autumn brings a steady cooling back toward roughly 50–60°F (10–16°C), and in winter the lake sits at or just above freezing (around 32–34°F / 0–1°C) beneath ice cover.
Swimming is permitted and is a common recreational activity in warmer months because summer surface temperatures reach comfortable ranges for bathing and the shoreline is accessible to residents and visitors. Water quality is generally managed locally, but swimmers should heed posted advisories and be mindful of typical lake hazards such as sudden drop-offs, aquatic vegetation, and changing weather. During spring and fall the cold water increases the risk of cold shock, and winter swimming is unsafe without specialized equipment and training due to ice and near-freezing conditions.