Opitz Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Opitz Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Opitz Lake today is 12.4°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 | 14.0°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 13.0°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 12.3°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.1°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 12.2°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 11.8°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 11.2°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 11.8°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 11.5°C | 12.4°C | |
| OCT 14 | 11.5°C | 12.3°C | |
| OCT 15 | 11.5°C | 12.3°C | |
| OCT 16 | 11.5°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 17 | 11.5°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 18 | 11.5°C | 12.1°C | |
| OCT 19 | 11.5°C | 12.1°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 | 6°C | 12°C |
| February | 0°C | 8°C | 15°C |
| March | 0°C | 9°C | 17°C |
| April | 2°C | 11°C | 20°C |
| May | 7°C | 14°C | 21°C |
| June | 14°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| August | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| September | 17°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| October | 5°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| December | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
Opitz Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Opitz Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Opitz Lake in South Dakota experiences the seasonal temperature swings typical of small prairie lakes. In spring the surface water generally warms from near freezing up to about 40–60°F (4–15°C) as air temperatures rise and stratification begins. By early summer surface temperatures are commonly in the 60–70°F range (15–21°C), and peak midsummer readings often reach roughly 70–78°F (21–26°C) on warm, sunny days; shallower bays can be a few degrees warmer. In autumn the lake cools back toward 40–60°F (4–15°C) and eventually drops to near freezing in winter, with surface ice and water temperatures around 32–39°F (0–4°C) where ice persists.
Swimming at Opitz Lake is generally possible during the ice-free months when water temperatures are comfortable and there are no posted health advisories. Local rules, property ownership, and seasonal issues such as harmful algal blooms or low visibility can limit or discourage swimming, so checking current conditions is important. Even in summer, early- and late-season water under about 70°F (21°C) can feel quite chilly and increase the risk of cold-water shock; winter ice cover makes swimming unsafe except for specialized, controlled events.