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 12.6°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| JUN 3 | 13.9°C | 14.5°C | |
| JUN 4 | 13.9°C | 14.5°C | |
| JUN 5 | 13.8°C | 14.5°C | |
| JUN 6 | 14.0°C | 14.5°C | |
| JUN 7 | 14.3°C | 14.5°C | |
| JUN 8 | 14.3°C | 14.5°C | |
| JUN 11 | 14.5°C | 12.7°C | |
| JUN 12 | 14.5°C | 12.8°C | |
| JUN 13 | 14.5°C | 12.9°C | |
| JUN 14 | 14.5°C | 13.0°C | |
| JUN 15 | 14.5°C | 13.1°C | |
| JUN 16 | 14.5°C | 13.2°C | |
| JUN 17 | 14.5°C | 13.3°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 | 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
June 9
June 10
June 11
June 12
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.