Big Barbee Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Big Barbee Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Big Barbee 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 5 | 18.4°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 18.5°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 18.2°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 17.9°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 17.6°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 17.8°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 16.9°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 17.1°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 18.0°C | 16.3°C | |
| OCT 14 | 18.0°C | 16.4°C | |
| OCT 15 | 18.0°C | 16.5°C | |
| OCT 16 | 18.0°C | 16.6°C | |
| OCT 17 | 18.0°C | 16.7°C | |
| OCT 18 | 18.0°C | 16.7°C | |
| OCT 19 | 18.0°C | 16.8°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 | 3°C | 6°C |
| February | 1°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| March | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| April | 5°C | 10°C | 15°C |
| May | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| June | 17°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| July | 23°C | 27°C | 30°C |
| August | 23°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| September | 20°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| October | 15°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| November | 6°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| December | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
Big Barbee Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Big Barbee Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Big Barbee Lake, one of the Barbee chain in northern Indiana, experiences clear seasonal swings in surface temperature that affect swimming. In spring (March–May) surface temperatures commonly run roughly 40–60°F (4–15°C) as the lake thaws and warms. By early summer in June temperatures typically rise into the 60s°F (15–21°C), and peak in July and August when surface waters often reach the low to mid 70s°F and can approach the low 80s°F on hot spells (about 21–28°C). In fall the lake cools back into the 50s–60s°F range (10–18°C), and in winter the surface approaches freezing around 32°F (0°C) and frequently forms ice.
Swimming is generally possible during the ice-free months because the lake is a natural public waterbody and residents and visitors commonly enter the water for recreation once temperatures are comfortable. However, practical safety considerations limit swimming: cold spring and fall water can be hazardous due to risk of cold shock, and winter ice makes swimming unsafe. Local advisories, algal bloom notices, or boating traffic can also temporarily restrict or discourage swimming, so checking current conditions before entering the water is recommended.