Snelling Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Snelling Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Snelling Lake today is 18.9°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 | 21.6°C | 21.8°C | |
| SEP 15 | 20.9°C | 21.8°C | |
| SEP 16 | 19.9°C | 21.8°C | |
| SEP 17 | 17.5°C | 21.8°C | |
| SEP 18 | 17.8°C | 21.8°C | |
| SEP 19 | 17.9°C | 21.8°C | |
| SEP 20 | 18.3°C | 21.8°C | |
| SEP 22 | 21.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 23 | 21.8°C | 19.2°C | |
| SEP 24 | 21.8°C | 19.3°C | |
| SEP 25 | 21.8°C | 19.5°C | |
| SEP 26 | 21.8°C | 19.6°C | |
| SEP 27 | 21.8°C | 19.8°C | |
| SEP 28 | 21.8°C | 19.9°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 | 7°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| March | 0°C | 3°C | 7°C |
| April | 4°C | 9°C | 14°C |
| May | 12°C | 17°C | 23°C |
| June | 18°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| July | 21°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| August | 22°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| September | 18°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| October | 6°C | 13°C | 20°C |
| November | 3°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| December | 1°C | 4°C | 7°C |
Snelling Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Snelling Lake: Weather Forecast
September 21
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
September 26
Location & Local Information
Snelling Lake, like many inland lakes in Minnesota, experiences pronounced seasonal changes in surface water temperature. In spring (April–May) the lake typically warms from near-freezing up to roughly 40–60°F (4–15°C) as ice melts and air temperatures rise. Summer months (June–August) are when the lake is warmest; surface temperatures commonly range from about 68–78°F (20–26°C), and during heat waves shallow bays can approach 80–85°F (27–29°C). In autumn the water cools again to roughly 50–60°F (10–15°C) before dropping toward freezing, and in winter the lake surface is usually at or just above 32°F (0°C) under ice cover, with the water just below ice typically in the low 30s °F (0–2°C).
Swimming is generally allowed at Minnesota lakes when designated beaches or public access points are open and local authorities permit it; in summer the warmer temperatures make swimming comfortable and safer from a hypothermia standpoint. However, early spring and late fall water can be uncomfortably cold and increase risk of cold-water shock, and winter ice prevents ordinary recreational swimming. Local rules, posted advisories and water-quality tests (for blue-green algae or bacteria) determine whether a specific site is open, so checking current notices and following lifeguard or park guidance is important.