Waubay Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Waubay Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Waubay Lake today is 12.7°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 | 14.1°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 13.2°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 12.4°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.0°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 12.7°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 12.5°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 11.4°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 12.1°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 11.5°C | 12.6°C | |
| OCT 14 | 11.5°C | 12.6°C | |
| OCT 15 | 11.5°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 16 | 11.5°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 17 | 11.5°C | 12.4°C | |
| OCT 18 | 11.5°C | 12.3°C | |
| OCT 19 | 11.5°C | 12.3°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 | 0°C | 8°C | 15°C |
| March | 0°C | 9°C | 17°C |
| April | 2°C | 11°C | 20°C |
| May | 7°C | 14°C | 21°C |
| June | 14°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 22°C | 28°C |
| August | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| September | 17°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| October | 5°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| November | 2°C | 6°C | 10°C |
| December | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
Waubay Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Waubay Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Waubay Lake, in northeastern South Dakota’s Waubay National Wildlife Refuge, experiences large seasonal swings in surface water temperature because it is relatively shallow and influenced by prairie weather. In winter the lake typically approaches freezing, with water temperatures near 32°F (0°C) beneath ice and often in the low 30s to low 40s °F (0–4 °C) during thaw periods. Spring brings rapid warming, with spring surface temps commonly in the 40s to 60s °F (4–16 °C) as ice melts and runoff cools the water. In summer, sheltered and shallow areas can warm to the mid-70s and occasionally low 80s °F (about 24–28 °C), while deeper or wind-exposed parts remain cooler. Early fall usually drops back into the 50s and lower 60s °F (10–18 °C) as air temperatures fall.
Swimming opportunities at Waubay Lake are limited and not a primary use. The lake and surrounding marshes are managed mainly for waterfowl and other wildlife, and extensive vegetation, shallow bottoms and variable water quality (including occasional algal growth) make casual swimming less practical. Many wildlife refuges discourage or restrict recreational swimming to protect habitat and for safety, so visitors should assume swimming is not encouraged and consult refuge signage or staff for current rules before entering the water.