Red Cedar Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Red Cedar Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Red Cedar Lake today is 18.4°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 65°F (18°C) to 68°F (20°C). This is already quite warm water, which is ideal for most people. Swimming becomes comfortable, and prolonged stays in the water do not cause discomfort. This temperature is perfect for family trips and for those who prefer warmer water. It is also comfortable for water sports such as surfing or swimming. 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 | 20.4°C | 17.6°C | |
| SEP 15 | 19.3°C | 17.6°C | |
| SEP 16 | 19.3°C | 17.6°C | |
| SEP 17 | 19.5°C | 17.6°C | |
| SEP 18 | 18.6°C | 17.6°C | |
| SEP 19 | 18.3°C | 17.6°C | |
| SEP 20 | 18.4°C | 17.6°C | |
| SEP 22 | 17.6°C | 18.4°C | |
| SEP 23 | 17.6°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 24 | 17.6°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 25 | 17.6°C | 18.2°C | |
| SEP 26 | 17.6°C | 18.2°C | |
| SEP 27 | 17.6°C | 18.2°C | |
| SEP 28 | 17.6°C | 18.1°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 | 5°C |
| February | 0°C | 2°C | 3°C |
| March | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| April | 1°C | 7°C | 13°C |
| May | 7°C | 14°C | 20°C |
| June | 14°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| July | 20°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| August | 19°C | 25°C | 30°C |
| September | 14°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| October | 9°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| November | 2°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| December | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
Red Cedar Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Red Cedar Lake: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
Red Cedar Lake in Wisconsin typically follows the seasonal temperature patterns seen in midwestern lakes. In spring the water is cool, often ranging from about 45–65°F (7–18°C) as air temperatures rise and runoff mixes with the lake. During summer the main swimming season, surface temperatures commonly climb into the comfortable 70–80°F (21–27°C) range, with shallow bays sometimes warming a few degrees higher. Early fall usually brings a gradual cooling to roughly 55–70°F (13–21°C) before the lake drops sharply in late autumn. In winter the surface freezes or approaches near-freezing conditions, with water under ice typically around 32–39°F (0–4°C), so open-water temperatures are very cold.
Swimming at Red Cedar Lake is generally permitted and is a common recreational activity in warm months, especially at public beaches and private shorelines; local rules and the presence of lifeguards vary by site. Whether swimming is advisable depends on conditions: water temperature, weather, underwater hazards and posted advisories for water quality or harmful algal blooms all matter. In winter, ice cover usually makes swimming unsafe except for specialized, supervised ice-swimming events. Visitors should check current local guidance and exercise standard water-safety practices before entering the lake.