South Center Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in South Center Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in South Center Lake today is 14.1°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 | 15.5°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 15.5°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 13.5°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 14.7°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 14.8°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 14.3°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 13.5°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 13.2°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 12.5°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 14 | 12.5°C | 13.9°C | |
| OCT 15 | 12.5°C | 13.9°C | |
| OCT 16 | 12.5°C | 13.8°C | |
| OCT 17 | 12.5°C | 13.7°C | |
| OCT 18 | 12.5°C | 13.6°C | |
| OCT 19 | 12.5°C | 13.5°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 | 2°C | 5°C |
| February | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| March | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| April | 3°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| May | 9°C | 15°C | 21°C |
| June | 16°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| July | 21°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| August | 20°C | 24°C | 29°C |
| September | 18°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| October | 6°C | 13°C | 19°C |
| November | 3°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| December | 1°C | 3°C | 6°C |
South Center Lake: Water Temperature by Location
South Center Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
South Center Lake in central Minnesota follows the seasonal temperature patterns typical of midwestern shallow-to-moderate depth lakes. In spring the surface usually warms from the low 40s to mid 60s °F (about 5–18 °C) as ice melts and the lake mixes. During summer the upper layer commonly reaches the 70s to low 80s °F (21–27 °C) on warm days, although deeper water remains cooler, often in the 40s–50s °F (4–10 °C) once the lake stratifies. In autumn the surface temperature drops back through the 50s to 40s °F (10–5 °C) as cooling and turnover occur, and winter brings ice cover with water just above freezing beneath the ice, roughly 32–39 °F (0–4 °C).
Swimming at South Center Lake is generally possible where public access or a beach exists, because summer surface temperatures are comfortable for recreational bathing. Whether people should swim depends on local conditions and rules: private shorelines, posted restrictions, algae advisories, or poor water quality can make swimming unsafe or prohibited in certain areas. Ice swimming in winter requires extreme caution and is not advised without proper safety measures. Before entering the water, check local postings or county health advisories for current water-quality and safety information.