Black Butte Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Black Butte Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Black Butte Lake today is 17.1°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 26 | 20.0°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 27 | 20.6°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 28 | 20.5°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 29 | 20.1°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 30 | 19.9°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 31 | 19.4°C | 20.0°C | |
| NOV 1 | 19.3°C | 15.2°C | |
| NOV 2 | 17.2°C | 15.2°C | |
| NOV 3 | 15.2°C | 17.0°C | |
| NOV 4 | 15.2°C | 16.9°C | |
| NOV 5 | 15.2°C | 16.8°C | |
| NOV 6 | 15.2°C | 16.7°C | |
| NOV 7 | 15.2°C | 16.6°C | |
| NOV 8 | 15.2°C | 16.5°C | |
| NOV 9 | 15.2°C | 16.4°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 | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| February | 6°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| March | 7°C | 13°C | 19°C |
| April | 12°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| May | 14°C | 20°C | 25°C |
| June | 21°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| July | 24°C | 27°C | 31°C |
| August | 24°C | 28°C | 32°C |
| September | 23°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| October | 16°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| November | 11°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| December | 9°C | 12°C | 14°C |
Black Butte Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Black Butte Lake: Weather Forecast
November 3
November 4
November 5
November 6
November 7
November 8
Location & Local Information
Black Butte Lake’s water temperatures vary considerably through the year because it is a shallow, reservoir-style lake in northern California. In late spring the surface typically warms into the 50s–60s °F (about 10–18 °C). Summer brings the warmest conditions, with surface temperatures commonly rising into the low–to–high 70s °F (around 21–27 °C), and occasionally touching the low 80s °F (about 28 °C) on very hot days. In autumn the lake cools back into the 60s °F (around 16–21 °C) before winter sets in, when surface readings often sit in the 40s–50s °F (roughly 4–13 °C). Deeper water stays colder year-round, and temperature stratification can produce sharp differences between surface and sub-surface layers.
Swimming at Black Butte Lake is generally allowed and is popular in the warmer months because surface temperatures in summer are comfortable for recreational use. Most day-use areas and beaches permit swimming, but there are typically no lifeguards and boating traffic, sudden drop-offs, and cold sub-surface water can create risks; hypothermia and cold shock remain concerns outside the warmest period. Visitors should follow posted rules, use personal flotation devices when appropriate, and choose swimming times and places with awareness of seasonal temperature changes and on-site safety conditions.