Rainy Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Rainy Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Rainy Lake today is 2.4°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges less than 41°F (5°C). Such water is extremely cold and not recommended for swimming without proper preparation. In these conditions, the risk of hypothermia is very high, and prolonged exposure to the water can be hazardous to your health. If you decide to swim, it is important to have the appropriate gear, such as a wetsuit. Typically, only experienced swimmers or those who practice winter swimming venture into such waters. 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 | 7.8°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 27 | 8.8°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 28 | 8.8°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 29 | 7.4°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 30 | 6.1°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 31 | 7.6°C | 11.5°C | |
| NOV 1 | 6.6°C | 7.0°C | |
| NOV 2 | 2.4°C | 7.0°C | |
| NOV 3 | 7.0°C | 2.6°C | |
| NOV 4 | 7.0°C | 2.9°C | |
| NOV 5 | 7.0°C | 3.1°C | |
| NOV 6 | 7.0°C | 3.3°C | |
| NOV 7 | 7.0°C | 3.6°C | |
| NOV 8 | 7.0°C | 3.8°C | |
| NOV 9 | 7.0°C | 4.0°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 | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 5°C |
| March | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| April | 2°C | 6°C | 10°C |
| May | 2°C | 11°C | 19°C |
| June | 13°C | 20°C | 27°C |
| July | 15°C | 21°C | 27°C |
| August | 19°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| September | 16°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| October | 6°C | 12°C | 17°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 1°C | 4°C | 7°C |
Rainy Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Rainy Lake: Weather Forecast
November 3
November 4
November 5
November 6
November 7
Location & Local Information
Rainy Lake, forming part of the border between Minnesota and Ontario, is a large, deep, stratified lake that is subject to the extremes of the northern climate. In the cold winter months, the lake freezes completely, with water temperatures near freezing, typically ranging from 0∘C to 5∘C (32∘F to 41∘F). In the peak summer season, particularly late July and August, the surface water warms considerably, often reaching a comfortable range for swimming, generally peaking around 24∘C to 26∘C (75∘F to 79∘F) in the top layers.
Swimming is widely permitted and encouraged in Rainy Lake, especially in designated areas. Within the nearby Voyageurs National Park, the vast water area offers many swimming opportunities, with some islands featuring great sandy shore beaches. Furthermore, the City of International Falls maintains City Beach, which typically features a sandy shore and a roped-off swim area, confirming its status as a designated swimming site. However, the lake is deep and often unsupervised outside of the city beach, meaning all swimming is strictly at one's own risk, and caution is advised regarding boat traffic and the potential for cold deeper waters.