Twin Lakes — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Twin Lakes, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Twin Lakes today is 12.2°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 | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 14.0°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 12.8°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.5°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 13.3°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 13.0°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 11.9°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 12.0°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 12.0°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 14 | 12.0°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 15 | 12.0°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 16 | 12.0°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 17 | 12.0°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 18 | 12.0°C | 12.1°C | |
| OCT 19 | 12.0°C | 12.1°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 | 1°C | 9°C | 17°C |
| April | 2°C | 11°C | 20°C |
| May | 7°C | 15°C | 23°C |
| June | 14°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| July | 17°C | 23°C | 29°C |
| August | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| September | 17°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| October | 5°C | 12°C | 19°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| December | 0°C | 5°C | 8°C |
Twin Lakes: Water Temperature by Location
Twin Lakes: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Twin Lakes in the Black Hills region of South Dakota typically runs cool most of the year because of elevation and northern latitude. Surface temperatures in summer commonly reach roughly 60–75°F (15–24°C) on warm afternoons, with the warmest pockets sometimes touching the upper 70s°F (25–26°C) in shallow, sheltered bays. In spring and fall the surface is usually about 40–60°F (4–16°C), and by winter the lake approaches freezing—around 32°F (0°C)—with ice forming on exposed areas. Temperatures vary with depth, inflows and recent weather, so surface readings on a sunny day will be warmer than sub-surface values.
Swimming is generally possible where public access and informal beaches exist, and the lake is used recreationally for bathing, kayaking and fishing. However, a short warm season, cool water even in summer, and variable conditions mean many visitors find swimming brisk; wetsuits or brief exposures are common. Local rules or seasonal advisories may limit access at particular sites, and there are often no lifeguards, so swimmers should be cautious about cold-water shock, sudden depth changes and boat traffic. Water quality and safety conditions are best checked locally before swimming.