Pelican Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Pelican Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Pelican Lake today is 5.7°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 | 9.4°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 27 | 9.3°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 28 | 10.1°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 29 | 8.7°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 30 | 8.7°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 31 | 8.0°C | 11.5°C | |
| NOV 1 | 8.5°C | 6.4°C | |
| NOV 2 | 5.7°C | 6.4°C | |
| NOV 3 | 6.4°C | 5.7°C | |
| NOV 4 | 6.4°C | 5.8°C | |
| NOV 5 | 6.4°C | 5.8°C | |
| NOV 6 | 6.4°C | 5.8°C | |
| NOV 7 | 6.4°C | 5.9°C | |
| NOV 8 | 6.4°C | 5.9°C | |
| NOV 9 | 6.4°C | 5.9°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 | 1°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| February | 1°C | 8°C | 15°C |
| March | 0°C | 9°C | 17°C |
| April | 2°C | 11°C | 20°C |
| May | 7°C | 15°C | 23°C |
| June | 14°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| July | 17°C | 23°C | 29°C |
| August | 19°C | 24°C | 29°C |
| September | 17°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| October | 5°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| November | 2°C | 6°C | 10°C |
| December | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
Pelican Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Pelican Lake: Weather Forecast
November 3
November 4
November 5
November 6
November 7
Location & Local Information
Pelican Lake in northeastern South Dakota experiences a wide seasonal swing in surface water temperature. In spring the surface typically climbs from roughly the mid-40s to mid-60s°F (about 7–18°C) as ice melts and the lake stratifies. Summer afternoons commonly bring surface temperatures into the 70s°F range, around 70–80°F (21–27°C) on warm days, although deeper or shaded areas stay several degrees cooler. Early fall sees a steady cooling back into the 50s–60s°F (10–18°C) range. In winter the lake usually freezes over, with surface temperatures at or below 32°F (0°C) under ice; any open water will be near freezing. Local weather, wind, depth and inflows all influence these averages, so temperatures can vary from spot to spot and year to year.
Swimming is generally permitted during the ice-free months at public access points and beaches where conditions are monitored, because water temperatures in summer reach comfortable ranges for most swimmers. Authorities may close or advise against swimming when water quality is poor, during harmful algal blooms, or when conditions pose safety risks such as cold shock in early spring and late fall. In winter, swimming is not feasible or safe due to ice cover and near-freezing water, and ice-related activities require specific safety precautions and local guidance.