Washburn Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Washburn Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Washburn Lake today is 11.6°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 50°F (10°C) to 54°F (12°C). The water is slightly warmer, but still cool for most people. Swimming in such conditions is possible, but for most people, the time spent in the water should be limited to avoid hypothermia. Even experienced swimmers may feel discomfort if they stay in the water for too long. To improve comfort and safety, a wetsuit can be used. 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 | 13.5°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 13.5°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 12.4°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 12.8°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 12.4°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 12.0°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 11.1°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 11.3°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 12.0°C | 11.6°C | |
| OCT 14 | 12.0°C | 11.6°C | |
| OCT 15 | 12.0°C | 11.7°C | |
| OCT 16 | 12.0°C | 11.7°C | |
| OCT 17 | 12.0°C | 11.7°C | |
| OCT 18 | 12.0°C | 11.7°C | |
| OCT 19 | 12.0°C | 11.7°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 | 18°C | 23°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 | 1°C | 4°C | 8°C |
Washburn Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Washburn Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Washburn Lake in Minnesota experiences strong seasonal swings in water temperature typical of northern lakes. Surface temperatures in winter hover at or just above freezing, about 32°F (0°C) under ice, while deeper water can remain slightly warmer. In spring the lake warms from roughly 34–55°F (1–13°C) as stratification begins. During summer, surface readings commonly reach the mid-60s to upper-70s °F, roughly 18–26°C, and in shallow bays can climb toward 80°F (27°C) on hot, calm days. By fall the surface cools back into the 50–65°F (10–18°C) range as mixing returns. Temperature gradients between warm surface layers and cooler depths are typical once the lake stratifies, so actual conditions depend on location, depth, and recent weather.
Swimming is generally possible at Washburn Lake where shoreline access is available, and many people swim there in summer when surface temperatures are most comfortable. Authorities or private landowners may restrict access in specific spots, and short-term advisories can close swimming due to algal blooms or water-quality issues. Cold water in spring, fall and especially winter poses higher risks of cold shock and hypothermia, so unprotected or prolonged immersion below roughly 70°F (21°C) requires caution. Standard safety practices — checking local conditions, using flotation for weak swimmers, and avoiding icy water without proper supervision — apply.