Upper Gull Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Upper Gull Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Upper Gull Lake 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 | 14.0°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 12.2°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 13.1°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.1°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 12.9°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 11.8°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 11.6°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 11.7°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 11.5°C | 12.1°C | |
| OCT 14 | 11.5°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 15 | 11.5°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 16 | 11.5°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 17 | 11.5°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 18 | 11.5°C | 11.9°C | |
| OCT 19 | 11.5°C | 11.9°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 | 0°C | 6°C | 12°C |
| February | 2°C | 9°C | 15°C |
| March | 0°C | 9°C | 17°C |
| April | 1°C | 11°C | 20°C |
| May | 6°C | 14°C | 21°C |
| June | 12°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| August | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| September | 17°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| October | 5°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| November | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| December | 2°C | 7°C | 11°C |
Upper Gull Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Upper Gull Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Upper Gull Lake’s surface water temperatures follow the typical seasonal pattern of central Minnesota lakes. After ice-out in spring, temperatures commonly rise from roughly 40–60°F (4–16°C) through May and June as the sun warms shallow bays. Peak summer surface temperatures in July and August often reach about 68–78°F (20–26°C) in open, sheltered areas, while deeper water remains cooler and may form a thermocline. By early fall the surface usually cools back into the 50–68°F (10–20°C) range, and in winter the lake settles near freezing beneath the ice at about 32–39°F (0–4°C).
Swimming is generally possible and commonly practiced during the warmer months when surface temperatures are most comfortable; many people swim from public accesses, beaches, and private shorelines. Local authorities or lake associations may monitor water quality and post advisories if bacteria levels or harmful algal blooms are detected, so checking signs and reports before entering the water is recommended. Cold or icy conditions make swimming unsafe outside summer, and sudden drops in temperature near deeper areas can increase hypothermia risk, so swimmers typically choose calm, warm-weather days and stay attentive to posted guidance.