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 17.9°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| JUN 2 | 16.4°C | 21.0°C | |
| JUN 3 | 16.3°C | 21.0°C | |
| JUN 4 | 17.0°C | 21.0°C | |
| JUN 5 | 17.4°C | 21.0°C | |
| JUN 6 | 17.4°C | 21.0°C | |
| JUN 7 | 17.4°C | 21.0°C | |
| JUN 8 | 17.6°C | 21.0°C | |
| JUN 10 | 21.0°C | 18.1°C | |
| JUN 11 | 21.0°C | 18.2°C | |
| JUN 12 | 21.0°C | 18.4°C | |
| JUN 13 | 21.0°C | 18.5°C | |
| JUN 14 | 21.0°C | 18.7°C | |
| JUN 15 | 21.0°C | 18.8°C | |
| JUN 16 | 21.0°C | 19.0°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
June 9
June 10
June 11
June 12
June 13
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.