Medicine Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Medicine Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Medicine Lake today is 6°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 41°F (5°C) to 47°F (8°C). This water temperature is still quite low, and swimming in such conditions may only be comfortable for hardened individuals. It is recommended to limit the time spent in the water to avoid hypothermia. For those not accustomed to cold water, it is better to refrain from swimming. However, if you decide to enter the water, it is advisable to wear a warm wetsuit for protection against the cold. 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 | 10.5°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 27 | 11.1°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 28 | 10.0°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 29 | 9.1°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 30 | 8.8°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 31 | 9.3°C | 12.5°C | |
| NOV 1 | 9.2°C | 7.0°C | |
| NOV 2 | 6.0°C | 7.0°C | |
| NOV 3 | 7.0°C | 6.1°C | |
| NOV 4 | 7.0°C | 6.1°C | |
| NOV 5 | 7.0°C | 6.2°C | |
| NOV 6 | 7.0°C | 6.2°C | |
| NOV 7 | 7.0°C | 6.3°C | |
| NOV 8 | 7.0°C | 6.3°C | |
| NOV 9 | 7.0°C | 6.4°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 | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| February | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| March | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| April | 3°C | 9°C | 14°C |
| May | 10°C | 16°C | 23°C |
| June | 16°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| July | 22°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| August | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| September | 18°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| October | 6°C | 13°C | 19°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 1°C | 4°C | 8°C |
Medicine Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Medicine Lake: Weather Forecast
November 3
November 4
November 5
November 6
November 7
November 8
Location & Local Information
Medicine Lake in Minnesota experiences a pronounced seasonal cycle in water temperature. After ice-out in spring, surface temperatures commonly range from the mid-30s to mid-50s °F (about 2–13 °C) as the lake warms. By summer the surface typically reaches comfortable swimming levels, often ranging from roughly 68–78 °F (20–26 °C), with occasional warm spells pushing into the low 80s °F (27–28 °C). In fall the lake cools back through the 40s and 50s °F (7–15 °C) before refreezing; under ice in winter the water near the surface remains close to the freezing point, about 32 °F (0 °C).
Swimming at Medicine Lake is commonly allowed during the ice-free months because surface temperatures in summer readily support recreational use and local parks provide access points and beaches. Use of beaches or designated swimming areas may be subject to local rules, posted advisories, or closures based on water quality, algae blooms, or safety considerations, so swimmers should check current conditions. In winter, open-water swimming is not appropriate because of ice cover and near-freezing temperatures; ice-based activities require separate safety precautions. Lifeguards are not guaranteed year-round, so personal safety measures and awareness of conditions are recommended.