Pipestem Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Pipestem Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Pipestem Lake today is 16.1°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 | 18.0°C | 18.7°C | |
| SEP 15 | 17.5°C | 18.7°C | |
| SEP 16 | 17.5°C | 18.7°C | |
| SEP 17 | 16.7°C | 18.7°C | |
| SEP 18 | 15.9°C | 18.7°C | |
| SEP 19 | 15.8°C | 18.7°C | |
| SEP 20 | 15.7°C | 18.7°C | |
| SEP 22 | 18.7°C | 16.2°C | |
| SEP 23 | 18.7°C | 16.4°C | |
| SEP 24 | 18.7°C | 16.5°C | |
| SEP 25 | 18.7°C | 16.6°C | |
| SEP 26 | 18.7°C | 16.8°C | |
| SEP 27 | 18.7°C | 16.9°C | |
| SEP 28 | 18.7°C | 17.0°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 | 1°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| February | 1°C | 8°C | 15°C |
| March | 1°C | 9°C | 17°C |
| April | 1°C | 11°C | 20°C |
| May | 6°C | 14°C | 21°C |
| June | 14°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| August | 19°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| September | 15°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| October | 5°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| November | 4°C | 7°C | 9°C |
| December | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
Pipestem Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Pipestem Lake: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
Pipestem Lake in North Dakota experiences a wide seasonal range in water temperature typical of inland, midcontinental reservoirs. In spring the surface water commonly warms from near freezing to roughly 35–60°F (2–16°C) as air temperatures rise and snowmelt contributes cold inflows. In midsummer the lake often reaches its warmest values, with surface temperatures frequently in the 68–78°F (20–26°C) band on sunny days and occasionally climbing a few degrees higher during heat waves. By fall the surface cools back toward 40–60°F (4–16°C) as daylight shortens and winds mix the water column, and in winter the reservoir typically sits at or near 32°F (0°C) under ice, making any open-water swimming unrealistic and unsafe.
Swimming is generally possible during the warmer months when surface temperatures are comfortable, and visitors commonly swim from shore or small beaches where permitted; however, conditions and amenities vary and many areas have no lifeguards or formal supervision. Cold water, sudden depth changes, underwater vegetation, and boat traffic are factors to consider, and even summer water can cause cold-water shock if swimmers are unprepared. In winter the lake is frozen or near freezing, so swimming is not appropriate due to ice hazards and hypothermia risk. Local rules and posted signs should be followed for safe recreational use.