Bowman-Haley Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Bowman-Haley Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Bowman-Haley Lake today is 6.1°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| APR 11 | 7.9°C | 8.0°C | |
| APR 12 | 5.6°C | 8.0°C | |
| APR 13 | 5.7°C | 8.0°C | |
| APR 14 | 5.6°C | 8.0°C | |
| APR 15 | 5.8°C | 8.0°C | |
| APR 16 | 5.9°C | 8.0°C | |
| APR 17 | 5.9°C | 8.0°C | |
| APR 18 | 6.2°C | 8.0°C | |
| APR 19 | 8.0°C | 6.2°C | |
| APR 20 | 8.0°C | 6.3°C | |
| APR 21 | 8.0°C | 6.4°C | |
| APR 22 | 8.0°C | 6.5°C | |
| APR 23 | 8.0°C | 6.6°C | |
| APR 24 | 8.0°C | 6.7°C | |
| APR 25 | 8.0°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 | 8°C | 11°C |
| May | 9°C | 14°C | 19°C |
| June | 15°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| July | 20°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| August | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| September | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| October | 8°C | 13°C | 18°C |
| November | 4°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| December | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
Bowman-Haley Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Bowman-Haley Lake: Weather Forecast
April 18
April 19
April 20
April 21
April 22
Location & Local Information
Bowman-Haley Lake experiences pronounced seasonal shifts in surface water temperature typical of reservoirs in western North Dakota. In winter the lake usually freezes or approaches freezing, with surface temperatures around 32°F (0°C). During spring the water warms slowly, commonly ranging from about 35–55°F (2–13°C) as runoff and cool air keep temperatures low. In summer, surface readings often reach the warmest values, roughly 60–80°F (15–27°C), although localized conditions such as depth, wind and inflow can keep pockets of water noticeably cooler. By fall the lake cools again, with temperatures generally falling to approximately 40–55°F (4–13°C) as air temperatures drop and stratification breaks down.
Swimming is permitted at Bowman-Haley within designated recreation areas and beaches, and the lake is used for swimming in warmer months when surface temperatures are most comfortable. However, swimmers should be aware that reservoir conditions vary: depth changes, submerged structures, sudden drop-offs and colder subsurface water can create hazards, and there are not always lifeguards on duty. Water quality and algal conditions can also affect safety, so it is advisable to follow posted signs and local advisories. In short, summer temperatures commonly allow for recreation, but caution and adherence to site-specific rules are recommended.