Branched Oak Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Branched Oak Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Branched Oak Lake today is 14.9°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 54°F (12°C) to 60°F (15°C). The water is significantly warmer, and swimming becomes possible for most people. However, caution may still be required for prolonged stays in the water, as extended exposure can cause discomfort. This is a suitable temperature range for short swims and for those accustomed to cooler water. For more comfortable swimming, it is recommended to use proper gear. 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 | 16.8°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 17.0°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 16.9°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 16.6°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 16.3°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 15.3°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 15.3°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 15.3°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 17.5°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 14 | 17.5°C | 15.2°C | |
| OCT 15 | 17.5°C | 15.3°C | |
| OCT 16 | 17.5°C | 15.4°C | |
| OCT 17 | 17.5°C | 15.6°C | |
| OCT 18 | 17.5°C | 15.7°C | |
| OCT 19 | 17.5°C | 15.8°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 | 2°C | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 6°C | 10°C |
| March | 1°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| April | 7°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| May | 15°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| June | 19°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| July | 25°C | 29°C | 33°C |
| August | 23°C | 27°C | 30°C |
| September | 21°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| October | 14°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| November | 2°C | 9°C | 16°C |
| December | 1°C | 5°C | 9°C |
Branched Oak Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Branched Oak Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Branched Oak Lake in Nebraska experiences a broad seasonal swing in surface water temperatures typical of Midwestern reservoirs. In winter the surface often approaches freezing, around 32°F (0°C) and can remain in the low 30s to low 40s F (0–5°C) under ice cover. Spring sees a steady warm-up with surface temperatures rising into the 40s and 50s F (4–15°C) as stratification begins. In summer the surface commonly reaches the 70s to mid-80s F (21–29°C) during warm spells, though deeper water remains much cooler. By fall the lake cools again, with surface readings typically falling into the 50s to low 70s F (10–22°C) before ice forms.
Swimming at Branched Oak is generally permitted in designated recreation areas because the reservoir is managed for public outdoor use, including bathing and boating. Access and beach availability depend on seasonal conditions and monitoring of water quality; blooms, storm runoff or unsafe weather can prompt temporary closures, and ice conditions make winter swimming unsafe. Swimmers should be aware that surface warmth in summer does not reflect much colder temperatures at depth and that posted signs and local guidance indicate when and where swimming is advisable.