Sturgeon Bay — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Sturgeon Bay, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Sturgeon Bay today is 12.1°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 | 13.2°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 13.1°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 13.9°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 12.7°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 13.2°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 13.1°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 12.0°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 12.2°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 14.5°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 14 | 14.5°C | 12.3°C | |
| OCT 15 | 14.5°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 16 | 14.5°C | 12.6°C | |
| OCT 17 | 14.5°C | 12.7°C | |
| OCT 18 | 14.5°C | 12.8°C | |
| OCT 19 | 14.5°C | 12.9°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 | 2°C | 5°C | 7°C |
| February | 2°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| March | 0°C | 3°C | 5°C |
| April | 2°C | 6°C | 11°C |
| May | 8°C | 16°C | 23°C |
| June | 15°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 22°C | 28°C |
| August | 19°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| September | 12°C | 17°C | 23°C |
| October | 11°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| November | 0°C | 5°C | 9°C |
| December | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
Sturgeon Bay: Water Temperature by Location
Sturgeon Bay: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
The waters around Sturgeon Bay in northeastern Wisconsin follow a clear seasonal pattern. In winter the surface is typically at or just above freezing, around 32°F (0°C), often remaining in the low 30s–mid 30s°F (0–2°C) until spring thaw. Spring sees slow warming, with average temperatures commonly in the mid-30s to around 50°F (2–10°C) depending on air temperatures and ice-out timing. By summer the bay and adjacent shallow areas commonly reach roughly 60–75°F (16–24°C), and on warm, calm weeks shallow coves can climb into the mid-70s°F (24°C) or slightly higher. In autumn the surface cools again, usually falling through the 50s into the 40s°F (10–4°C) as the season progresses.
Swimming is generally allowed in Sturgeon Bay where public access points and beaches exist, and many people swim there during the warmer months because summer temperatures make the water comfortable for short recreations. However, conditions vary: currents, passing boat traffic, sudden depth changes and water temperature changes pose hazards, and water quality advisories can occasionally close areas. Cold-water shock and hypothermia are real risks outside high summer, so swimmers should heed posted signs, local guidance, use flotation when appropriate, and avoid prolonged exposure when temperatures are below comfortable swimming ranges.