Shields Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Shields Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Shields Lake today is 14°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 6 | 15.0°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 13.9°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 14.5°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 14.7°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 14.2°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 13.5°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 14.5°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 14 | 13.0°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 15 | 13.0°C | 13.9°C | |
| OCT 16 | 13.0°C | 13.9°C | |
| OCT 17 | 13.0°C | 13.8°C | |
| OCT 18 | 13.0°C | 13.8°C | |
| OCT 19 | 13.0°C | 13.7°C | |
| OCT 20 | 13.0°C | 13.7°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 | 2°C | 4°C |
| March | 0°C | 2°C | 4°C |
| April | 2°C | 8°C | 15°C |
| May | 10°C | 15°C | 21°C |
| June | 15°C | 21°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 |
Shields Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Shields Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Shields Lake in Minnesota follows the familiar seasonal temperature cycle of small lakes in the region. During winter it typically develops an ice cover and water temperatures hover close to freezing at about 32°F (0°C), with liquid water beneath the ice usually around 34–39°F (1–4°C). In spring the surface warms from near-freezing to roughly 40–60°F (4–16°C) as ice melts and stratification begins. Summer brings the warmest conditions, often in the range of 65–80°F (18–27°C) on warm afternoons, although deep or shaded areas stay cooler. By autumn the surface cools back toward 40–60°F (4–16°C) as the lake destratifies and prepares to refreeze.
Swimming can be enjoyable in summer when surface temperatures reach the mid-60s to upper-70s °F (around 18–27°C), but whether bathing is permitted depends on access, local regulations and water-quality conditions. Public beaches or launches typically indicate if swimming is allowed; advisories for algal blooms, bacterial contamination or unsafe conditions can close areas temporarily. Cold-water exposures in spring, fall and under ice carry increased risk of shock and hypothermia, so recreational swimmers should heed posted guidance, use life jackets as appropriate, and check local health or park updates before entering the water.