Whiteface Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Whiteface Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Whiteface Reservoir today is 16.4°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 14 | 19.0°C | 17.4°C | |
| SEP 15 | 18.1°C | 17.4°C | |
| SEP 16 | 18.1°C | 17.4°C | |
| SEP 17 | 17.3°C | 17.4°C | |
| SEP 18 | 17.4°C | 17.4°C | |
| SEP 19 | 17.4°C | 17.4°C | |
| SEP 20 | 16.8°C | 17.4°C | |
| SEP 21 | 16.4°C | 17.4°C | |
| SEP 22 | 17.4°C | 16.5°C | |
| SEP 23 | 17.4°C | 16.5°C | |
| SEP 24 | 17.4°C | 16.6°C | |
| SEP 25 | 17.4°C | 16.6°C | |
| SEP 26 | 17.4°C | 16.7°C | |
| SEP 27 | 17.4°C | 16.7°C | |
| SEP 28 | 17.4°C | 16.8°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 | 3°C |
| February | 0°C | 1°C | 3°C |
| March | 0°C | 1°C | 3°C |
| April | 1°C | 5°C | 9°C |
| May | 4°C | 11°C | 19°C |
| June | 14°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| July | 18°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| August | 18°C | 24°C | 30°C |
| September | 14°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| October | 9°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| November | 1°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 2°C | 4°C |
Whiteface Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Whiteface Reservoir: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
Whiteface Reservoir in northeastern Minnesota experiences pronounced seasonal changes in water temperature. In winter the lake is typically at or near freezing, about 32–35°F (0–2°C) beneath the ice. Spring brings a gradual warming, with surface temperatures commonly ranging from roughly 35–55°F (2–13°C) as the water mixes and responds to air temperatures. During summer the shallow and surface zones warm the most, often reaching about 60–75°F (15–24°C) on warm spells, while deeper water remains noticeably colder. In autumn the surface cools again to roughly 50–60°F (10–16°C) before freeze-up. Actual readings vary with weather, wind, inflows and depth, and the reservoir can stratify so that deeper water stays much cooler than the surface.
Swimming at Whiteface Reservoir is generally possible and commonly done in the warm months where access and shore conditions are appropriate, because summertime surface temperatures often become comfortable for swimming. However, swimming may be restricted or ill-advised in specific locations for safety reasons: cold deeper water, strong currents near the dam or inlets, boat traffic, poor visibility, or local water-quality advisories can create hazards. Visitors should follow posted signs, use designated public access points, and check local authorities or park managers for any seasonal restrictions or safety guidance before entering the water.