Modesto — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Modesto, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Modesto today is 14°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| NOV 2 | 15.1°C | 8.1°C | |
| NOV 3 | 15.6°C | 8.1°C | |
| NOV 4 | 14.4°C | 8.1°C | |
| NOV 5 | 14.8°C | 8.1°C | |
| NOV 6 | 14.5°C | 8.1°C | |
| NOV 7 | 14.5°C | 8.1°C | |
| NOV 8 | 14.7°C | 8.1°C | |
| NOV 9 | 13.4°C | 8.1°C | |
| NOV 10 | 8.1°C | 13.7°C | |
| NOV 11 | 8.1°C | 13.4°C | |
| NOV 12 | 8.1°C | 13.1°C | |
| NOV 13 | 8.1°C | 12.8°C | |
| NOV 14 | 8.1°C | 12.5°C | |
| NOV 15 | 8.1°C | 12.2°C | |
| NOV 16 | 8.1°C | 11.9°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 | 3°C | 8°C | 13°C |
| February | 3°C | 8°C | 14°C |
| March | 3°C | 10°C | 18°C |
| April | 5°C | 11°C | 18°C |
| May | 8°C | 13°C | 21°C |
| June | 14°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| July | 17°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| August | 17°C | 22°C | 28°C |
| September | 11°C | 17°C | 23°C |
| October | 8°C | 14°C | 20°C |
| November | 3°C | 8°C | 16°C |
| December | 7°C | 10°C | 14°C |
Modesto: Weather Forecast
November 10
November 11
November 12
November 13
November 14
November 15
Location & Local Information
Modesto, California, is situated near the San Joaquin River, which offers a range of recreational activities, although swimming is not as common as other activities like fishing, boating, or wildlife watching. The water temperature in the San Joaquin River varies greatly depending on the time of year. During the warmer months, from late spring through early fall, the water temperature typically ranges from 65°F (18°C) to 75°F (24°C). These temperatures are relatively cool, which can make the river refreshing for a short swim, especially when the surrounding temperatures in Modesto soar above 90°F (32°C). However, the river’s current can be strong in some sections, which may make swimming more difficult or unsafe in certain areas.
In the cooler months, the water temperature in the San Joaquin River drops significantly, usually ranging from 50°F (10°C) to 60°F (15°C). This cooler water is not conducive to comfortable swimming, and most people avoid entering the river during the winter months due to the chill. The stronger currents in winter, often a result of seasonal runoff, further discourage swimming, making other activities like kayaking and rafting more popular at that time.
Although the San Joaquin River may not be the first choice for swimming, Modesto offers other water-based activities at nearby lakes, such as Woodward Reservoir and the Turlock Lake State Recreation Area, which provide more controlled environments for swimming. These lakes generally have warmer water during the summer, with temperatures ranging from 75°F (24°C) to 85°F (29°C), offering a more comfortable option for those looking to swim in the region.