Sauk Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Sauk Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Sauk Lake today is 12.5°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 54°F (12°C) to 60°F (15°C). The water is significantly warmer, and swimming becomes possible for most people. However, caution may still be required for prolonged stays in the water, as extended exposure can cause discomfort. This is a suitable temperature range for short swims and for those accustomed to cooler water. For more comfortable swimming, it is recommended to use proper gear. 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 5 | 15.1°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 14.2°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 12.6°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.6°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 13.6°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 11.7°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 12.7°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 12.4°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 12.0°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 14 | 12.0°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 15 | 12.0°C | 12.4°C | |
| OCT 16 | 12.0°C | 12.4°C | |
| OCT 17 | 12.0°C | 12.4°C | |
| OCT 18 | 12.0°C | 12.4°C | |
| OCT 19 | 12.0°C | 12.3°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 | 2°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| February | 2°C | 9°C | 15°C |
| March | 0°C | 9°C | 17°C |
| April | 2°C | 11°C | 20°C |
| May | 7°C | 14°C | 21°C |
| June | 14°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| July | 17°C | 22°C | 28°C |
| August | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| September | 17°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| October | 5°C | 12°C | 19°C |
| November | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| December | 1°C | 7°C | 11°C |
Sauk Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Sauk Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Sauk Lake in Minnesota follows the typical seasonal temperature pattern of shallow to moderate-depth lakes in the region. In winter the surface is at or below freezing, about 32°F (0°C), and the lake is commonly ice-covered. During spring lag and melt the water warms from roughly 35–55°F (2–13°C), with cold stratified layers persisting into late spring. Summer surface temperatures are the warmest and most variable, generally ranging from about 65–80°F (18–27°C) on warm afternoons; deeper water will be several degrees cooler. In early fall the surface cools from roughly 55–70°F (13–21°C) as air temperatures drop and mixing increases, returning the lake toward springlike conditions by late autumn.
Swimming is generally allowed at community-access lakes in Minnesota when conditions are safe, and the same is true at Sauk Lake unless local regulations or posted advisories prohibit it. Recreational swimming is feasible in the warm summer months when surface temperatures are in the mid-60s to upper-70s °F (around 18–27°C). Caution is advised in spring and fall because cold water can cause cold-shock and hypothermia, and ice conditions in winter make swimming unsafe. Always check local water-quality advisories, access rules, and ice safety notices before entering the water.