Upper Whitefish Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Upper Whitefish Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Upper Whitefish Lake today is 20.3°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 68°F (20°C) to 74°F (23°C). The water is warm and pleasant for swimming, and in this range, one can stay in the water for extended periods without the risk of hypothermia. This is the ideal temperature for relaxation, swimming, and water sports. Families with children, as well as outdoor enthusiasts, will enjoy swimming and time spent in the water. For most people, this is the optimal temperature for a comfortable beach experience. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| JUN 23 | 18.2°C | 17.5°C | |
| JUN 24 | 18.3°C | 17.5°C | |
| JUN 25 | 18.3°C | 17.5°C | |
| JUN 26 | 18.3°C | 17.5°C | |
| JUN 27 | 18.4°C | 17.5°C | |
| JUN 28 | 18.5°C | 17.5°C | |
| JUN 29 | 18.6°C | 17.5°C | |
| JUN 30 | 18.6°C | 17.5°C | |
| JUL 1 | 19.4°C | 20.3°C | |
| JUL 2 | 19.4°C | 20.2°C | |
| JUL 3 | 19.4°C | 20.2°C | |
| JUL 4 | 19.4°C | 20.1°C | |
| JUL 5 | 19.4°C | 20.1°C | |
| JUL 6 | 19.4°C | 20.0°C | |
| JUL 7 | 19.4°C | 20.0°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 | 3°C | 9°C | 15°C |
| March | 0°C | 9°C | 17°C |
| April | 1°C | 11°C | 20°C |
| May | 5°C | 13°C | 21°C |
| June | 13°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| August | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| September | 17°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| October | 5°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| November | 3°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| December | 3°C | 6°C | 8°C |
Upper Whitefish Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Upper Whitefish Lake: Weather Forecast
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Location & Local Information
Upper Whitefish Lake in Minnesota follows the typical seasonal pattern of northern glacial lakes. In spring the surface water often ranges from roughly 40–60°F (4–15°C) as the lake cools after ice-out and mixes. By summer the warm surface layer commonly reaches about 68–75°F (20–24°C), and on hot, calm days can climb into the upper 70s°F (around 25–26°C). In fall the surface temperature falls back through the 50s–60s°F (10–16°C) as cooling and turnover occur. During winter the surface is generally at or just above freezing (about 32°F / 0°C) when ice is present; water under the ice will usually be a few degrees warmer but still near 32–39°F (0–4°C), and deep water stays cold year-round due to stratification.
Swimming is permitted and commonly enjoyed in the warmer months, but whether it is advisable depends on conditions. Summer temperatures in the upper 60s to mid-70s°F (20–24°C) are comfortable for swimming, yet cold springs or sudden wind-driven chill can create cold-water shock risks. Ice cover makes swimming unsafe and is prohibited by common-sense safety; additionally, swimmers should heed local water-quality advisories (blue-green algae, bacteria) and follow signage or guidance from county authorities or lake associations before entering the water.