Belle Fourche Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Belle Fourche Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Belle Fourche Reservoir today is 6.5°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 41°F (5°C) to 47°F (8°C). This water temperature is still quite low, and swimming in such conditions may only be comfortable for hardened individuals. It is recommended to limit the time spent in the water to avoid hypothermia. For those not accustomed to cold water, it is better to refrain from swimming. However, if you decide to enter the water, it is advisable to wear a warm wetsuit for protection against the cold. 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 26 | 10.7°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 27 | 9.7°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 28 | 9.1°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 29 | 8.7°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 30 | 8.2°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 31 | 7.8°C | 12.5°C | |
| NOV 1 | 6.2°C | 7.4°C | |
| NOV 2 | 6.5°C | 7.4°C | |
| NOV 3 | 7.4°C | 6.5°C | |
| NOV 4 | 7.4°C | 6.6°C | |
| NOV 5 | 7.4°C | 6.6°C | |
| NOV 6 | 7.4°C | 6.7°C | |
| NOV 7 | 7.4°C | 6.7°C | |
| NOV 8 | 7.4°C | 6.8°C | |
| NOV 9 | 7.4°C | 6.8°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 | 1°C | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 1°C | 4°C |
| March | 0°C | 4°C | 9°C |
| April | 5°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| May | 7°C | 15°C | 23°C |
| June | 15°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| July | 19°C | 25°C | 31°C |
| August | 21°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| September | 16°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| October | 7°C | 13°C | 18°C |
| November | 4°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| December | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
Belle Fourche Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Belle Fourche Reservoir: Weather Forecast
November 3
November 4
November 5
November 6
November 7
Location & Local Information
Belle Fourche Reservoir (commonly called Lake Belle Fourche) sees substantial seasonal swings in water temperature driven by air temperature, wind and depth. In winter the surface typically approaches freezing, around 32°F (0°C), and the reservoir can develop ice cover. Spring warming usually brings surface temperatures into the 40s–60s °F (4–16 °C) as runoff and cool air persist. During summer the surface commonly warms into the mid-60s to low-80s °F (18–28 °C), with the warmest midsummer days occasionally pushing toward the upper 70s or low 80s °F (25–28 °C) in shallow bays. In fall the water cools back into the 50s–60s °F (10–16 °C) before freezing resumes. Actual temperatures vary by location in the reservoir, depth, and year-to-year weather.
Swimming is generally allowed at Belle Fourche Reservoir because the site is managed for multiple recreational uses, including swimming, boating and fishing, and there are designated access areas. However, conditions and rules can change: water quality advisories, no-lifeguard status, irrigation drawdowns, strong winds, sudden drop-offs and boat traffic may limit safe swimming at times. Visitors should look for posted regulations at the recreation areas, be aware that surface temperatures can feel cool even on warm days, and take standard safety precautions when entering the water.