Apache Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Apache Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Apache Lake today is 18.8°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 65°F (18°C) to 68°F (20°C). This is already quite warm water, which is ideal for most people. Swimming becomes comfortable, and prolonged stays in the water do not cause discomfort. This temperature is perfect for family trips and for those who prefer warmer water. It is also comfortable for water sports such as surfing or swimming. 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 6 | 19.6°C | 21.4°C | |
| NOV 7 | 19.4°C | 21.4°C | |
| NOV 8 | 19.7°C | 21.4°C | |
| NOV 9 | 19.7°C | 21.4°C | |
| NOV 10 | 19.2°C | 21.4°C | |
| NOV 11 | 18.9°C | 21.4°C | |
| NOV 12 | 19.4°C | 21.4°C | |
| NOV 13 | 19.1°C | 21.4°C | |
| NOV 14 | 21.4°C | 18.9°C | |
| NOV 15 | 21.4°C | 19.1°C | |
| NOV 16 | 21.4°C | 19.2°C | |
| NOV 17 | 21.4°C | 19.3°C | |
| NOV 18 | 21.4°C | 19.5°C | |
| NOV 19 | 21.4°C | 19.6°C | |
| NOV 20 | 21.4°C | 19.7°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 | 11°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| February | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| March | 12°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| April | 14°C | 21°C | 27°C |
| May | 21°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| June | 21°C | 26°C | 30°C |
| July | 25°C | 30°C | 35°C |
| August | 27°C | 30°C | 34°C |
| September | 25°C | 28°C | 31°C |
| October | 21°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| November | 16°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| December | 13°C | 19°C | 24°C |
Apache Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Apache Lake: Weather Forecast
November 14
November 15
November 16
November 17
November 18
Location & Local Information
Apache Lake, one of the four reservoirs along the Salt River in Arizona, experiences a dramatic range in water temperature, typical of the Sonoran Desert environment. During the intense summer heat, which can see air temperatures well over 38∘C (100∘F), the surface water warms considerably, often reaching highs of 28∘C to 31∘C (82∘F to 88∘F), making it highly desirable for cooling off. Conversely, the winter months bring about the coolest water conditions, with surface temperatures dropping to the range of 11∘C to 14∘C (52∘F to 57∘F), which is too cold for casual recreation but favors certain cold-water fish.
Swimming is generally allowed and is a popular activity at Apache Lake, as the Tonto National Forest manages it for a variety of recreational uses. Designated areas, such as shoreline stretches near the Apache Lake Marina and certain coves, are often used for swimming and beaching. However, there are no official lifeguarded beaches, meaning swimming is done at one's own risk. Caution is essential due to the remote nature of the lake, heavy boat traffic, and the rugged, rocky terrain which can result in sudden, deep drop-offs and submerged hazards. Cliff jumping is also explicitly discouraged due to unknown submerged obstacles and shallow areas.