Saint Croix River — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in the Saint Croix River, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in the Saint Croix River today is 14.7°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 | 16.3°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 15.9°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 15.1°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 15.5°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 15.6°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 15.5°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 14.7°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 15.1°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 12.5°C | 14.6°C | |
| OCT 14 | 12.5°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 15 | 12.5°C | 14.4°C | |
| OCT 16 | 12.5°C | 14.3°C | |
| OCT 17 | 12.5°C | 14.2°C | |
| OCT 18 | 12.5°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 19 | 12.5°C | 13.9°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 | 2°C | 4°C |
| March | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| April | 4°C | 8°C | 13°C |
| May | 9°C | 15°C | 21°C |
| June | 16°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| July | 21°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| August | 21°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| September | 18°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| October | 6°C | 13°C | 19°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 1°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Saint Croix River: Water Temperature by Location
Saint Croix River: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
The Saint Croix River in Minnesota experiences pronounced seasonal variation in water temperature. In early spring, as snowmelt and cool air dominate, surface temperatures commonly range from about 35–50°F (2–10°C). By summer, sheltered backwaters and shallow areas can warm into the mid-60s to mid-70s °F (18–24°C), while swifter, deeper channels often remain cooler in the low to mid-60s °F (15–18°C). In autumn the river cools back toward roughly 50–60°F (10–15°C), and in winter the surface approaches freezing with ice cover in many reaches and under-ice water temperatures near 33–39°F (1–4°C). Local conditions—depth, flow, shading, and weather—produce significant short-term variation.
Swimming is permitted in many places along the Saint Croix, particularly at designated park beaches and quieter backwater spots, but it is not universally safe everywhere. Strong currents, cold hypothermia risk in early and late season, boat traffic, submerged obstacles, and variable depths make some stretches hazardous. Local parks and authorities may post restrictions or lifeguard availability, so swimmers are advised to choose established swimming areas, heed signage, avoid solitary swims, and use flotation when appropriate. Seasonal temperature and river dynamics should guide whether and how to swim.