[michigan lizard]

Originally Posted by JoePO

Data (and my own experience) suggests it peaks about 1st-2nd week of August...


https://coastwatch.glerl.noaa.gov/st..._1992-2018.gif

This is the kind of thing I was talking about:
https://www.mlive.com/weather/2019/0...n-beaches.html

More recent years does seem to support that tends to happen a little later, but its safer to plan for a little earlier. But this year, I'd suggest staying out of the water unless its really calm. I don't think there's ever been so many drownings as this year.

[michigan83]

Originally Posted by michigan lizard

My pre-global warming observation has been that water temperature in Lake Michigan peaks at the end of July. It usually turns over beginning of August and gets much colder.

It really depends on weather and wind direction. A strong east wind will push the warm water away from shore and cold water from the bottom will take its place. But a string of warm weather can warm it back up again. I’ve seen the lake be pretty warm in September.

Edit: just saw that the link posted above this pointed out the same thing.

[JoePO]

Originally Posted by michigan83

It really depends on weather and wind direction. A strong east wind will push the warm water away from shore and cold water from the bottom will take its place. But a string of warm weather can warm it back up again. I’ve seen the lake be pretty warm in September.

Edit: just saw that the link posted above this pointed out the same thing.

Yes, it can change drastically within days. I've been at the beach when the lake was a balmy 78-82 on Tuesday and then felt like 65 on Thursday! The it's time to hit the wineries!