Banks Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Banks Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Banks Lake today is 16.2°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| JUN 3 | 13.8°C | 18.5°C | |
| JUN 4 | 14.6°C | 18.5°C | |
| JUN 5 | 14.7°C | 18.5°C | |
| JUN 6 | 14.8°C | 18.5°C | |
| JUN 7 | 15.2°C | 18.5°C | |
| JUN 8 | 16.6°C | 18.5°C | |
| JUN 11 | 18.5°C | 16.3°C | |
| JUN 12 | 18.5°C | 16.4°C | |
| JUN 13 | 18.5°C | 16.5°C | |
| JUN 14 | 18.5°C | 16.7°C | |
| JUN 15 | 18.5°C | 16.8°C | |
| JUN 16 | 18.5°C | 16.9°C | |
| JUN 17 | 18.5°C | 17.0°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 | 1°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| March | 1°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| April | 2°C | 7°C | 13°C |
| May | 11°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| June | 13°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| July | 14°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| August | 21°C | 24°C | 26°C |
| September | 15°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| October | 10°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| November | 4°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| December | 1°C | 4°C | 6°C |
Banks Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Banks Lake: Weather Forecast
June 9
June 10
June 11
June 12
June 13
Location & Local Information
Banks Lake in central Washington experiences a clear seasonal pattern in water temperature. During winter the surface often stays near freezing, roughly 34–40°F (1–4°C), with deeper water remaining colder. In spring the lake warms into the mid and upper 40s to low 60s Fahrenheit (about 7–16°C) as air temperatures rise. Peak surface temperatures typically occur in July and August, commonly reaching the mid-60s to mid-70s °F (18–24°C) and occasionally climbing toward 80°F (around 27°C) during heat waves. By fall the surface cools back into the 50s–60s °F range (10–16°C). Like many reservoirs, Banks Lake is thermally stratified in warmer months, so deeper water stays significantly cooler than the surface.
Swimming is generally permitted at Banks Lake and is a common recreational activity at parks and campgrounds along the shore, but conditions vary by site and season. The relatively cool average temperatures mean swimmers should be aware of cold-water shock risks outside the warmest weeks and that deeper areas remain cold even in summer. Boat traffic, drop-offs, and limited lifeguard coverage at many access points mean swimmers should follow posted rules, use flotation when appropriate, and check local advisories before entering the water.