Sakatah Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Sakatah Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Sakatah Lake today is 9.3°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 47°F (8°C) to 50°F (10°C). This is still cool water, suitable only for experienced swimmers or those accustomed to cold water. Swimming in such conditions is possible, but not recommended for prolonged periods. Extra caution should be taken during extended exposure, as the cold water can cause heat loss and lead to hypothermia. For added comfort, special clothing can be used. 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 21 | 10.8°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 22 | 10.4°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 23 | 10.1°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 24 | 9.9°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 25 | 9.6°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 26 | 10.5°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 27 | 11.4°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 28 | 10.5°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 29 | 13.0°C | 9.2°C | |
| OCT 30 | 13.0°C | 9.1°C | |
| OCT 31 | 13.0°C | 9.0°C | |
| NOV 1 | 7.0°C | 8.8°C | |
| NOV 2 | 7.0°C | 8.7°C | |
| NOV 3 | 7.0°C | 8.6°C | |
| NOV 4 | 7.0°C | 8.5°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 | 1°C | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 2°C | 4°C |
| March | 0°C | 2°C | 4°C |
| April | 3°C | 9°C | 16°C |
| May | 9°C | 15°C | 22°C |
| June | 15°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| July | 20°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| August | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| September | 18°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| October | 6°C | 13°C | 20°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 1°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Sakatah Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Sakatah Lake: Weather Forecast
October 29
October 30
October 31
November 1
November 2
Location & Local Information
Sakatah Lake, located in south-central Minnesota, follows the seasonal temperature patterns typical of shallow inland lakes in the region. During winter the surface is usually at or just above freezing, about 32–34°F (0–1°C) under ice cover. Spring brings a steady warm-up with surface temperatures commonly rising from roughly 40–60°F (4–16°C) as air temperatures moderate and runoff mixes the water. In summer, when conditions are most favorable for recreation, daytime surface temperatures often range from about 68–78°F (20–26°C), and during hot spells the near-surface water can briefly reach the low 80s °F (around 27–28°C). By fall the lake cools again, typically settling into the 50–65°F range (10–18°C) before ice forms.
Swimming is generally permitted at Sakatah Lake because it is managed for multiple recreational uses within the state park, but facilities and protections vary. There may not be staffed lifeguards, so swimmers should follow posted rules, use caution around boats and vegetation, and pay attention to any water-quality advisories such as harmful algal blooms that can close swim areas. Comfort for typical recreational swimming is best in midsummer when surface temperatures are in the upper 60s to upper 70s °F (about 20–26°C), though individual tolerance for cooler water differs.