Vermillion Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Vermillion Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Vermillion Lake today is 3.9°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges less than 41°F (5°C). Such water is extremely cold and not recommended for swimming without proper preparation. In these conditions, the risk of hypothermia is very high, and prolonged exposure to the water can be hazardous to your health. If you decide to swim, it is important to have the appropriate gear, such as a wetsuit. Typically, only experienced swimmers or those who practice winter swimming venture into such waters. 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 26 | 7.9°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 27 | 9.7°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 28 | 7.5°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 29 | 7.5°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 30 | 7.1°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 31 | 7.5°C | 12.0°C | |
| NOV 1 | 6.4°C | 7.0°C | |
| NOV 2 | 3.6°C | 7.0°C | |
| NOV 3 | 7.0°C | 4.1°C | |
| NOV 4 | 7.0°C | 4.2°C | |
| NOV 5 | 7.0°C | 4.4°C | |
| NOV 6 | 7.0°C | 4.5°C | |
| NOV 7 | 7.0°C | 4.7°C | |
| NOV 8 | 7.0°C | 4.8°C | |
| NOV 9 | 7.0°C | 5.0°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 | 0°C | 1°C | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 2°C | 4°C |
| March | 0°C | 2°C | 4°C |
| April | 1°C | 6°C | 10°C |
| May | 6°C | 13°C | 19°C |
| June | 15°C | 21°C | 27°C |
| July | 20°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| August | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| September | 16°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| October | 6°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Vermillion Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Vermillion Lake: Weather Forecast
November 3
November 4
November 5
November 6
November 7
Location & Local Information
Lake Vermilion in northeastern Minnesota experiences marked seasonal swings in surface water temperature. After ice-out in spring, surface readings commonly rise from near freezing (about 32–39°F / 0–4°C) into the 50s (10–15°C) by late spring. In summer, sheltered bays and shallow areas often warm to the high 60s and low to mid 70s Fahrenheit (20–24°C), while the main basins and deeper water can remain cooler, often 60–68°F (15–20°C) even on warm days. By early fall temperatures typically fall back through the 50s into the 40s (7–12°C) before the lake freezes again and surface water returns close to 32°F (0°C) under ice. These numbers are approximate and vary with weather, depth, and local exposure.
Swimming is permitted and commonly enjoyed at public access points, resorts, and shoreline properties, but conditions influence suitability. Shallow, sun-warmed bays are generally most comfortable for casual swimming in summer, whereas deeper water can feel cold and increase the risk of cold-water shock or rapid hypothermia. Ice cover in winter makes open-water swimming unsafe without specialized precautions. Swimmers should check current local conditions, water clarity, and use flotation or swim with companions, since temperature stratification and underwater drop-offs can change the experience quickly.