Whitefish Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Whitefish Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Whitefish Lake today is 49°F.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 47°F (8°C) to 50°F (10°C). This is still cool water, suitable only for experienced swimmers or those accustomed to cold water. Swimming in such conditions is possible, but not recommended for prolonged periods. Extra caution should be taken during extended exposure, as the cold water can cause heat loss and lead to hypothermia. For added comfort, special clothing 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAY 6 | 47°F | 56°F | |
| MAY 7 | 46°F | 56°F | |
| MAY 8 | 46°F | 56°F | |
| MAY 9 | 46°F | 56°F | |
| MAY 10 | 47°F | 56°F | |
| MAY 11 | 47°F | 56°F | |
| MAY 12 | 47°F | 56°F | |
| MAY 13 | 49°F | 56°F | |
| MAY 14 | 56°F | 50°F | |
| MAY 15 | 56°F | 50°F | |
| MAY 16 | 56°F | 50°F | |
| MAY 17 | 56°F | 51°F | |
| MAY 18 | 56°F | 51°F | |
| MAY 19 | 56°F | 51°F | |
| MAY 20 | 56°F | 52°F |
* 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 | 32°F | 36°F | 41°F |
| February | 32°F | 35°F | 39°F |
| March | 32°F | 35°F | 39°F |
| April | 36°F | 43°F | 50°F |
| May | 45°F | 56°F | 66°F |
| June | 57°F | 69°F | 81°F |
| July | 70°F | 75°F | 81°F |
| August | 70°F | 76°F | 82°F |
| September | 63°F | 68°F | 73°F |
| October | 43°F | 55°F | 66°F |
| November | 37°F | 45°F | 52°F |
| December | 34°F | 38°F | 43°F |
Whitefish Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Whitefish Lake: Weather Forecast
May 14
May 15
May 16
May 17
May 18
May 19
Location & Local Information
Whitefish Lake in Minnesota experiences a pronounced seasonal cycle in water temperature. In spring (April–May) surface waters typically climb from around 40–60°F (4–15°C) as ice melts and the lake stratifies. By summer (June–August) surface temperatures in the warmer, shallower bays commonly reach about 65–78°F (18–26°C), while deeper areas remain noticeably cooler, often in the 45–55°F (7–13°C) range. In autumn (September–October) the surface cools back toward roughly 50–60°F (10–16°C) before the lake overturns, and in winter the surface is at or near freezing, about 32–39°F (0–4°C) under ice cover, with liquid water below ice generally only a few degrees above freezing.
Swimming is generally possible at Whitefish Lake during the open-water months when public access points and beaches are free of ice, and many visitors swim in summer when surface temperatures are warmest. Local beach postings, water-quality advisories and lifeguard presence (if any) should be checked before entering; occasional bacterial or blue‑green algae advisories can restrict swimming. Even in summer, sudden drops into deeper, colder water can increase the risk of cold shock or hypothermia, so swimmers should be cautious, use flotation as needed, and follow posted safety guidance.