Otter Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Otter Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Otter Lake today is 12.5°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 | 14.9°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 14.9°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 13.5°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.7°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 13.6°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 13.4°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 11.9°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 12.1°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 13.5°C | 12.6°C | |
| OCT 14 | 13.5°C | 12.6°C | |
| OCT 15 | 13.5°C | 12.7°C | |
| OCT 16 | 13.5°C | 12.7°C | |
| OCT 17 | 13.5°C | 12.8°C | |
| OCT 18 | 13.5°C | 12.8°C | |
| OCT 19 | 13.5°C | 12.9°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 | 4°C |
| March | 0°C | 2°C | 4°C |
| April | 1°C | 7°C | 14°C |
| May | 8°C | 14°C | 21°C |
| June | 14°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| July | 19°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| August | 19°C | 25°C | 30°C |
| September | 14°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| October | 9°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| November | 2°C | 8°C | 13°C |
| December | 0°C | 2°C | 4°C |
Otter Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Otter Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Otter Lake in Wisconsin typically follows the seasonal pattern of small inland lakes in the region. Surface water temperatures in early spring often range from about 40–60°F (4–16°C) as ice melts and the lake stratifies. In summer the water commonly warms to roughly 65–80°F (18–27°C), with the warmest surface readings occurring in July and August on sunny, calm days. During fall the lake cools back toward 50–60°F (10–16°C) before ice formation brings temperatures down to around 32°F (0°C) through the winter months when the lake is frozen or near-freezing.
Swimming at Otter Lake is generally allowed and is a common recreational activity during the warmer months because it is a freshwater lake with shoreline access and boat launches used for swimming and boating. Local parks or beaches, when present, permit bathing and lifeguard availability varies. However, temporary restrictions can occur for public-health reasons such as elevated bacterial counts or harmful algal blooms, and private property limits access in some areas. Visitors should check local signage or municipal advisories, be mindful of variable depths and underwater hazards, and remember that even in summer surface heat can mask cooler subsurface water that may present a cold-shock risk.