Ballston Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Ballston Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Ballston Lake today is 15.1°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 60°F (15°C) to 65°F (18°C). The water is comfortable for most people, making it an ideal range for water sports enthusiasts. The temperature does not cause significant discomfort, and swimming will be pleasant for the majority. However, it's important to remember that prolonged exposure to the water can still lead to cooling, so it's essential to monitor the time spent in the water, especially for children or elderly people. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 5 | 17.9°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 17.1°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 17.5°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 17.0°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 16.1°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 16.2°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 15.9°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 16.2°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 15.0°C | 15.1°C | |
| OCT 14 | 15.0°C | 15.1°C | |
| OCT 15 | 15.0°C | 15.1°C | |
| OCT 16 | 15.0°C | 15.1°C | |
| OCT 17 | 15.0°C | 15.1°C | |
| OCT 18 | 15.0°C | 15.1°C | |
| OCT 19 | 15.0°C | 15.1°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 | 0°C | 2°C | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| March | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| April | 4°C | 9°C | 14°C |
| May | 11°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| June | 14°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| July | 20°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| August | 20°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| September | 17°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| October | 12°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| November | 6°C | 10°C | 13°C |
| December | 1°C | 6°C | 9°C |
Ballston Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Ballston Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Ballston Lake in Upstate New York follows a typical temperate-lake seasonal cycle. In winter the surface commonly approaches freezing, roughly 32–40°F (0–4°C) beneath ice or near-ice cover. During spring the water warms gradually to about 40–60°F (4–16°C) as snowmelt and spring rains mix the water column. By summer, when people most often swim, surface temperatures generally reach about 68–78°F (20–26°C), with occasional warm spells pushing readings into the low 80s (around 27°C). Early fall sees cooling back into the mid-50s to upper-60s°F range (13–20°C) as stratification breaks down.
Swimming in Ballston Lake is a common summertime activity, but whether it is formally “allowed” depends on location and local rules. There are public access points and residents who swim from shore or boats, but many areas lack lifeguards and some shorelines are private; posted signs and municipal regulations should be followed. Factors that influence whether it’s advisable to swim include seasonal water quality (occasional algal blooms), aquatic vegetation, boat traffic, and the risk of cold water shock outside peak summer temperatures. Always check current local advisories, obey signage, and take standard safety precautions when entering the water.