Turtle River Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Turtle River Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Turtle River Lake today is 16.3°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 | 18.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 15 | 17.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 16 | 17.6°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 17 | 17.1°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 18 | 16.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 19 | 16.6°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 20 | 15.9°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 21 | 16.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 22 | 19.0°C | 16.4°C | |
| SEP 23 | 19.0°C | 16.6°C | |
| SEP 24 | 19.0°C | 16.7°C | |
| SEP 25 | 19.0°C | 16.8°C | |
| SEP 26 | 19.0°C | 17.0°C | |
| SEP 27 | 19.0°C | 17.1°C | |
| SEP 28 | 19.0°C | 17.2°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 | 1°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| February | 1°C | 8°C | 15°C |
| March | 1°C | 9°C | 17°C |
| April | 2°C | 11°C | 20°C |
| May | 2°C | 12°C | 21°C |
| June | 13°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| August | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| September | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| October | 5°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| November | 2°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 2°C | 7°C | 11°C |
Turtle River Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Turtle River Lake: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
Turtle River Lake in northern Minnesota follows the seasonal rhythms typical of lakes in the region. After ice-out in spring, surface temperatures commonly range from roughly 40–60°F (4–16°C) through late spring. In summer months the shallow, sun-warmed surface often reaches about 65–80°F (18–27°C) on most days; on particularly hot afternoons sheltered bays can be a few degrees warmer. By fall the water cools back down toward 45–60°F (7–16°C) before ice forms. During winter the surface freezes and the water beneath the ice stays near freezing temperatures, around 32–39°F (0–4°C), until thaw.
Swimming is generally possible and popular in the ice-free summer months because surface temperatures are warm enough for comfortable bathing. Public access points, resorts, and private shorelines typically permit swimming, though conditions vary and local advisories about water quality or harmful algal blooms can temporarily restrict use. Even in summer, swimmers should be mindful that deeper areas remain noticeably cooler, that vegetation and drop-offs can affect safety, and that boats share the water. In spring and fall the cool temperatures make prolonged swimming uncomfortable, and in winter open-water swimming is unsafe except for experienced, prepared cold-water practitioners.