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 13.4°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 | 14.4°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 13.6°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 12.9°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.4°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 13.2°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 13.0°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 11.9°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 12.8°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 11.5°C | 13.3°C | |
| OCT 14 | 11.5°C | 13.2°C | |
| OCT 15 | 11.5°C | 13.1°C | |
| OCT 16 | 11.5°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 17 | 11.5°C | 12.9°C | |
| OCT 18 | 11.5°C | 12.8°C | |
| OCT 19 | 11.5°C | 12.7°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 | 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
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
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.