North Bay Houghton Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in North Bay Houghton Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in North Bay Houghton Lake today is 5.5°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 | 8.4°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 27 | 8.5°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 28 | 8.4°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 29 | 8.8°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 30 | 8.6°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 31 | 8.6°C | 14.5°C | |
| NOV 1 | 8.0°C | 7.0°C | |
| NOV 2 | 5.5°C | 7.0°C | |
| NOV 3 | 7.0°C | 5.6°C | |
| NOV 4 | 7.0°C | 5.7°C | |
| NOV 5 | 7.0°C | 5.7°C | |
| NOV 6 | 7.0°C | 5.8°C | |
| NOV 7 | 7.0°C | 5.9°C | |
| NOV 8 | 7.0°C | 6.0°C | |
| NOV 9 | 7.0°C | 6.0°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 | 6°C |
| February | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| March | 1°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| April | 2°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| May | 7°C | 13°C | 18°C |
| June | 14°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| July | 19°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| August | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| September | 17°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| October | 10°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| November | 2°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
North Bay Houghton Lake: Water Temperature by Location
North Bay Houghton Lake: Weather Forecast
November 3
November 4
November 5
November 6
November 7
Location & Local Information
The North Bay area of Houghton Lake, Michigan, experiences a wide range of surface water temperatures through the year. In winter the lake often nears freezing with surface temperatures around 32°F (0°C) or lower under ice cover. During spring the water gradually warms, typically ranging from the mid-40s to low-60s °F (about 7–16°C) as ice melts and air temperatures rise. Peak summer surface temperatures are usually reached in July and August, commonly in the 70s °F (around 21–26°C) and occasionally approaching the upper 70s to low 80s °F (26–28°C) on very warm, calm days. As autumn arrives the lake cools back into the 50s and 60s °F (10–20°C), with steady declines toward freezing by late fall and winter.
Swimming in North Bay of Houghton Lake is generally allowed and is a routine summer activity because summer temperatures are comfortable for recreational bathing. Public access points and private beaches provide entry to the water, but swimmers should be mindful of local conditions: cold-water shock risk outside peak months, variable underwater vegetation, boat traffic in busy areas, and occasional algal blooms or water-quality advisories that can restrict swimming. Lifeguards are not guaranteed at all access points, so following posted guidance and checking current local advisories is recommended before entering the water.