Big Creek Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Big Creek Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Big Creek Lake today is 17.3°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 | 18.1°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 18.2°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 17.6°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 17.5°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 18.4°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 17.6°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 17.5°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 17.3°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 17.5°C | 17.3°C | |
| OCT 14 | 17.5°C | 17.3°C | |
| OCT 15 | 17.5°C | 17.3°C | |
| OCT 16 | 17.5°C | 17.3°C | |
| OCT 17 | 17.5°C | 17.4°C | |
| OCT 18 | 17.5°C | 17.4°C | |
| OCT 19 | 17.5°C | 17.4°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 | 2°C | 5°C |
| March | 0°C | 5°C | 11°C |
| April | 5°C | 10°C | 16°C |
| May | 10°C | 16°C | 22°C |
| June | 17°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| July | 23°C | 27°C | 31°C |
| August | 23°C | 27°C | 31°C |
| September | 21°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| October | 12°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| November | 3°C | 9°C | 15°C |
| December | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
Big Creek Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Big Creek Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Big Creek Lake in central Iowa experiences marked seasonal changes in water temperature that influence recreational use. During winter months surface temperatures commonly hover just above freezing, roughly 33–40°F (1–4°C), and the lake can develop ice cover. In spring the water warms through the range of about 40–60°F (4–16°C) as run-off and air temperatures rise. By summer, surface temperatures are typically the warmest, generally around 70–80°F (21–27°C) and occasionally reaching the mid-80s°F (~29°C) during heat spells; deeper water remains noticeably cooler. In autumn the surface cools back through the 60–45°F (16–7°C) range as the lake begins to turnover.
Swimming is allowed at Big Creek Lake in designated swimming areas and is popular in the summer when surface temperatures are most comfortable. Local authorities manage where swimming is permitted to separate swimmers from boating zones and to allow for water-quality monitoring; posted rules, seasonal lifeguard coverage, and advisories should be observed. Even in summer, swimmers should be aware that temperature drops with depth, that wind and weather can change conditions quickly, and that spring and fall water temperatures may feel uncomfortably cold for prolonged immersion.