Lake Arbutus wakes up to a steamy 82°F high today with morning lows starting at 63°F—a nearly 20-degree swing that tells you this day has plans. Thunderstorms threaten at dawn with 8 mph southwest winds, but stick around because this forecast gets interesting.

Your Paddling Window: 7AM-7PM

Here’s the honest truth: that 7am launch looks sketchy with a 100% chance of showers and thunderstorms greeting you at 63°F. By 8am, conditions shift to mostly cloudy with winds holding steady at 8 mph from the southwest. The real magic happens mid-morning through early afternoon—temperatures climb from 68°F at 9am to a comfortable 75°F by noon as skies turn partly sunny. Your sweet spot for kayak rental at East Lake Arbutus? That 10am to 2pm window when humidity drops from 84% to 60% and you’ll catch the warmest, clearest stretch of the day at 80°F.

Through the Day

Early birds face that thunderstorm gamble at 7am—100% humidity and uncertain skies make for a damp start. But patience pays off as conditions steadily improve with 8 mph westerly winds keeping things manageable through midday. By 2pm you’re looking at mostly sunny skies and the day’s peak of 80°F before a slight chance of afternoon thunderstorms returns around 3pm at 81°F. Late afternoon mellows out nicely—winds shift northwest at 9 mph from 4pm onward, and temperatures ease back to a pleasant 77°F by 7pm under partly cloudy skies.

Why Today Works

This is a day for the patient paddler willing to wait out that morning drama. If you’re looking for things to do in Wisconsin that don’t involve getting struck by lightning, aim for the 10am-3pm window when paddleboard rental on Lake Arbutus actually makes sense. With winds maxing at just 9 mph throughout the afternoon, even beginners can handle these conditions—just keep one eye on those building clouds.

Visit Details

We’ve got 6 kayaks and 6 paddleboards ready for your Lake Arbutus adventure, available sunrise to sunset. This is an unstaffed kiosk, so bring your self-reliance along with your sunscreen.

Should You Come Today?

Skip the 7am heroics and arrive mid-morning for the best paddling conditions Wisconsin has to offer today. This day rewards the flexible paddler who can pivot around that afternoon thunderstorm chance—so pack a backup plan and enjoy the ride.

Weather & Safety Disclaimer: This forecast is based on current data and is subject to rapid change. Always check current conditions in person before paddling. Water conditions can change suddenly and unexpectedly. Kayak Kiosk is not liable for changes in weather, water conditions, or personal injury. Paddlers assume all risks associated with paddling. Always wear a properly fitting PFD, check official weather forecasts, and use good judgment. Do not paddle in conditions you are uncomfortable with.