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 15.8°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 23 | 14.8°C | 14.5°C | |
| JUN 24 | 14.4°C | 14.5°C | |
| JUN 25 | 14.4°C | 14.5°C | |
| JUN 26 | 14.6°C | 14.5°C | |
| JUN 27 | 16.0°C | 14.5°C | |
| JUN 28 | 15.9°C | 14.5°C | |
| JUN 29 | 15.8°C | 14.5°C | |
| JUN 30 | 15.7°C | 14.5°C | |
| JUL 1 | 18.9°C | 16.0°C | |
| JUL 2 | 18.9°C | 16.1°C | |
| JUL 3 | 18.9°C | 16.3°C | |
| JUL 4 | 18.9°C | 16.4°C | |
| JUL 5 | 18.9°C | 16.6°C | |
| JUL 6 | 18.9°C | 16.7°C | |
| JUL 7 | 18.9°C | 16.9°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 | 3°C | 5°C |
| March | 1°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| April | 1°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| May | 3°C | 9°C | 16°C |
| June | 11°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| July | 16°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| August | 17°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| September | 15°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| October | 7°C | 11°C | 15°C |
| November | 3°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| December | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
Whitefish Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Whitefish Lake: Weather Forecast
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Location & Local Information
Whitefish Lake in Montana experiences a clear seasonal cycle in water temperature. In winter the surface typically freezes or hovers near the freezing point, around 32°F (0°C) or slightly below where ice persists. Spring brings a gradual warm-up with waters commonly in the mid 30s to mid 50s °F (about 2–13°C) as snowmelt and cool air persist. Summer is the warmest period for swimmers, with overall temperatures most often in the 60–70°F range (roughly 15–21°C); shallow, sheltered bays can warm into the low 70s (around 22–24°C) on hot, calm afternoons. By autumn the lake cools again, generally dropping into the 40s and 50s °F (approximately 4–15°C) before refreezing.
Swimming is permitted in many public beaches and parks around Whitefish Lake because it is a public recreational resource, but whether people choose to swim depends largely on temperature and conditions. Summer conditions make swimming feasible and relatively comfortable in designated areas, though water is colder than many inland lakes and cold‑water shock is a real hazard for unprepared swimmers. Lifeguard coverage and facilities are seasonal, so swimmers should heed posted rules and warnings. Winter ice cover usually precludes typical swimming and requires specialized equipment and knowledge for any ice activities.