South Waubay Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in South Waubay Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in South Waubay Lake today is 17.8°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 60°F (15°C) to 65°F (18°C). The water is comfortable for most people, making it an ideal range for water sports enthusiasts. The temperature does not cause significant discomfort, and swimming will be pleasant for the majority. However, it's important to remember that prolonged exposure to the water can still lead to cooling, so it's essential to monitor the time spent in the water, especially for children or elderly people. 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 | 20.3°C | 21.2°C | |
| SEP 15 | 19.5°C | 21.2°C | |
| SEP 16 | 19.0°C | 21.2°C | |
| SEP 17 | 18.7°C | 21.2°C | |
| SEP 18 | 18.1°C | 21.2°C | |
| SEP 19 | 18.3°C | 21.2°C | |
| SEP 20 | 18.1°C | 21.2°C | |
| SEP 21 | 17.8°C | 21.2°C | |
| SEP 22 | 21.2°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 23 | 21.2°C | 18.1°C | |
| SEP 24 | 21.2°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 25 | 21.2°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 26 | 21.2°C | 18.7°C | |
| SEP 27 | 21.2°C | 18.8°C | |
| SEP 28 | 21.2°C | 19.0°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 | 6°C | 12°C |
| February | 0°C | 8°C | 15°C |
| March | 0°C | 9°C | 17°C |
| April | 2°C | 11°C | 20°C |
| May | 6°C | 14°C | 21°C |
| June | 14°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 22°C | 28°C |
| August | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| September | 17°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| October | 5°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| November | 2°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| December | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
South Waubay Lake: Water Temperature by Location
South Waubay Lake: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
South Waubay Lake, like other shallow prairie lakes in northeastern South Dakota, experiences strong seasonal swings in surface temperature. In spring the water often ranges from about 40–60°F (4–16°C) as it warms after ice-out. By early summer surface temperatures typically climb into the 60s–70s°F (16–24°C), and peak summer conditions in July and August can see surface waters commonly between 70–85°F (21–29°C) on warm spells. In autumn the lake cools back to roughly 45–65°F (7–18°C) before freezing; winter brings prolonged ice cover with temperatures at or below 32°F (0°C) in the water column near the ice.
Swimming is generally possible and commonly practiced during the ice-free months when surface temperatures are comfortable for recreation, because South Waubay Lake provides public water access and is used for summer recreation. Local conditions, however, determine whether swimming is advisable: municipal or state advisories may close areas for algal blooms, poor water quality, or hunting safety during migratory waterfowl seasons, and cold or rapidly changing temperatures increase the risk of hypothermia. Visitors should check current local signage or agency notices before entering the water and exercise normal safety precautions.