Iowa

Iowa, United States © pixabay.com

Iowa Water Temperature

This page provides detailed information about the water temperature in lakes and rivers in Iowa, United States. All cities and resorts on the coast of lakes and along the rivers. The range of sea temperatures for today. We find every spot where you can swim and tell you what the water temperature is there today and throughout the year.

Water Temperature in Iowa: General Trends and Swimming Opportunities

In Iowa, the water temperatures in rivers and lakes are highly influenced by seasonal changes, with distinct variations between the warmer and cooler months. During the summer, lakes and rivers in Iowa, such as Big Creek Lake and the Des Moines River, experience water temperatures that typically range from 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C). These warmer temperatures create ideal conditions for outdoor activities like swimming, boating, and fishing. Popular lakes like Clear Lake and Storm Lake attract many visitors during the summer, as the waters remain comfortable for recreational activities, especially for families and water sports enthusiasts.

In contrast, the winter months bring much cooler water temperatures to Iowa's lakes and rivers. By late fall and into the winter, the water temperatures in many of the state's smaller lakes and rivers drop significantly, often falling to around 35°F to 40°F (1.5°C to 4.5°C). During this time, swimming is no longer viable, and many of the shallower lakes may even freeze over, creating opportunities for winter activities like ice fishing. Larger bodies of water, such as the Mississippi River, tend to remain slightly warmer in winter, with water temperatures ranging from 40°F to 45°F (4.5°C to 7°C), but they still present a challenge for most water-based activities.

Iowa's rivers, including the Missouri and Cedar Rivers, show similar seasonal patterns. In summer, the rivers typically reach temperatures between 70°F and 75°F (21°C to 24°C), which is comfortable for activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. However, the cooler weather in the fall and winter months causes the water temperatures in these rivers to drop, often to around 35°F to 40°F (1.5°C to 4.5°C). These changes in water temperature impact the types of activities people can enjoy throughout the year, with summer offering a wide range of water sports, and winter limiting water recreation to cold-weather activities.

Geographical Location of Iowa

Frequently Asked Questions About Iowa and its Water Temperatures