Box Butte Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Box Butte Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Box Butte Reservoir today is 19°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 65°F (18°C) to 68°F (20°C). This is already quite warm water, which is ideal for most people. Swimming becomes comfortable, and prolonged stays in the water do not cause discomfort. This temperature is perfect for family trips and for those who prefer warmer water. It is also comfortable for water sports such as surfing or swimming. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 13 | 20.9°C | 20.3°C | |
| SEP 14 | 20.5°C | 20.3°C | |
| SEP 15 | 19.5°C | 20.3°C | |
| SEP 16 | 20.1°C | 20.3°C | |
| SEP 17 | 19.1°C | 20.3°C | |
| SEP 18 | 20.1°C | 20.3°C | |
| SEP 19 | 19.3°C | 20.3°C | |
| SEP 20 | 19.8°C | 20.3°C | |
| SEP 21 | 20.3°C | 19.1°C | |
| SEP 22 | 20.3°C | 19.1°C | |
| SEP 23 | 20.3°C | 19.2°C | |
| SEP 24 | 20.3°C | 19.3°C | |
| SEP 25 | 20.3°C | 19.3°C | |
| SEP 26 | 20.3°C | 19.4°C | |
| SEP 27 | 20.3°C | 19.5°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 | 2°C | 5°C |
| February | 0°C | 1°C | 4°C |
| March | 0°C | 4°C | 9°C |
| April | 5°C | 10°C | 15°C |
| May | 9°C | 15°C | 22°C |
| June | 17°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| July | 21°C | 25°C | 30°C |
| August | 22°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| September | 16°C | 20°C | 25°C |
| October | 9°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| November | 5°C | 8°C | 10°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Box Butte Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Box Butte Reservoir: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
September 26
Location & Local Information
Box Butte Reservoir in northwest Nebraska experiences a wide range of water temperatures through the year. In winter the surface commonly hovers near freezing, roughly 33–40°F (0.5–4.5°C), and can develop ice in prolonged cold spells. Spring warms more slowly, with temperatures typically rising into the 40s and 50s°F (about 4–15°C) as runoff and cooler air persist. By summer the reservoir is at its warmest, often between about 70–80°F (21–27°C) on typical hot days and occasionally reaching the low 80s°F (27–28°C) during heat waves. Autumn brings a steady decline back into the 50s–60s°F (10–18°C) before winter chill returns.
Swimming at Box Butte Reservoir is generally possible but treated as a casual, self-supervised activity rather than a managed beach experience. The area is managed primarily for boating, fishing and camping, so there are usually no lifeguards and conditions can change with water levels, currents near inlets, aquatic vegetation and occasional algal blooms; local advisories may also affect access. Because of the seasonal temperature swings, cold spring and late-fall water can pose hypothermia risk, while mid-summer offers the most comfortable and common window for swimming. Visitors should check current conditions and follow posted rules before entering the water.