Sheridan Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Sheridan Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Sheridan Lake today is 13.6°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 | 14.5°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 13.3°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 13.3°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.7°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 13.7°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 13.2°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 12.4°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 13.5°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 13.0°C | 13.6°C | |
| OCT 14 | 13.0°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 15 | 13.0°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 16 | 13.0°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 17 | 13.0°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 18 | 13.0°C | 13.4°C | |
| OCT 19 | 13.0°C | 13.4°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 | 1°C | 4°C |
| March | 0°C | 3°C | 7°C |
| April | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| May | 8°C | 14°C | 20°C |
| June | 15°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| July | 18°C | 23°C | 29°C |
| August | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| September | 16°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| October | 8°C | 13°C | 18°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| December | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
Sheridan Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Sheridan Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Sheridan Lake in western South Dakota experiences pronounced seasonal swings in water temperature. In spring the reservoir typically remains cool, roughly 40–60°F (4–16°C) as runoff and cold air keep temperatures low. Summer brings the warmest conditions, with surface temperatures commonly rising into the 68–80°F range (20–27°C) and sometimes reaching the mid‑80s (around 29°C) during heat waves. In autumn the water cools again, often settling between 50–65°F (10–18°C) before winter, when temperatures approach freezing and the lake surface can drop to about 32–40°F (0–4°C), with ice forming in colder spells.
Swimming is generally possible at Sheridan Lake during the warmer months at designated recreation and beach areas because the reservoir is managed for multiple public uses, including swimming and boating. That said, conditions are variable: early and late season water can feel uncomfortably cold, and wind, waves or sudden temperature drops can make swimming hazardous. Visitors should plan swims for the warmest part of summer, heed posted notices at the recreation area, and exercise typical water‑safety precautions.