Otter Tail Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Otter Tail Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Otter Tail Lake today is 18°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 60°F (15°C) to 65°F (18°C). The water is comfortable for most people, making it an ideal range for water sports enthusiasts. The temperature does not cause significant discomfort, and swimming will be pleasant for the majority. However, it's important to remember that prolonged exposure to the water can still lead to cooling, so it's essential to monitor the time spent in the water, especially for children or elderly people. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 14 | 18.8°C | 20.4°C | |
| SEP 15 | 17.7°C | 20.4°C | |
| SEP 16 | 17.9°C | 20.4°C | |
| SEP 17 | 17.8°C | 20.4°C | |
| SEP 18 | 17.5°C | 20.4°C | |
| SEP 19 | 17.8°C | 20.4°C | |
| SEP 20 | 17.1°C | 20.4°C | |
| SEP 21 | 18.0°C | 20.4°C | |
| SEP 22 | 20.4°C | 18.1°C | |
| SEP 23 | 20.4°C | 18.2°C | |
| SEP 24 | 20.4°C | 18.4°C | |
| SEP 25 | 20.4°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 26 | 20.4°C | 18.6°C | |
| SEP 27 | 20.4°C | 18.7°C | |
| SEP 28 | 20.4°C | 18.8°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 | 2°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| February | 2°C | 9°C | 15°C |
| March | 1°C | 9°C | 17°C |
| April | 2°C | 11°C | 20°C |
| May | 6°C | 14°C | 21°C |
| June | 15°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| August | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| September | 17°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| October | 5°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 2°C | 5°C | 8°C |
Otter Tail Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Otter Tail Lake: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
Otter Tail Lake, a large recreational lake in west-central Minnesota, experiences wide seasonal variation in surface water temperatures. In winter when the lake is iced over, temperatures at or just above freezing sit around 32–36°F (0–2°C). Spring thaw sees surface waters rise into the 40s and 50s °F (4–15°C) as runoff and warming air influence the lake. By late spring and early summer the surface commonly warms into the 60s–70s °F (15–24°C), and midsummer can bring surface readings into the upper 60s to around 80°F (20–27°C) on warm days. In fall the surface cools again, typically ranging from about 50–65°F (10–18°C) before the lake refreezes. Deeper water stays cooler year-round, and wind, inflows and shading cause localized differences.
Swimming is generally allowed and popular on Otter Tail Lake because it is managed for recreation with public accesses and lakeshore properties. Summer surface temperatures in the 68–80°F (20–27°C) range are comfortable for most swimmers, but caution is advised in early spring and late fall when cold water increases hypothermia risk. Water quality can vary seasonally; nutrient-driven algae blooms or bacterial advisories occasionally prompt temporary restrictions, so swimmers should observe posted warnings and exercise standard water-safety precautions.