Buffalo Bill Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Buffalo Bill Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Buffalo Bill Reservoir 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 14 | 18.1°C | 16.3°C | |
| SEP 15 | 17.9°C | 16.3°C | |
| SEP 16 | 18.5°C | 16.3°C | |
| SEP 17 | 17.1°C | 16.3°C | |
| SEP 18 | 16.9°C | 16.3°C | |
| SEP 19 | 17.6°C | 16.3°C | |
| SEP 20 | 17.6°C | 16.3°C | |
| SEP 22 | 16.3°C | 17.1°C | |
| SEP 23 | 16.3°C | 17.0°C | |
| SEP 24 | 16.3°C | 17.0°C | |
| SEP 25 | 16.3°C | 16.9°C | |
| SEP 26 | 16.3°C | 16.9°C | |
| SEP 27 | 16.3°C | 16.9°C | |
| SEP 28 | 16.3°C | 16.8°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 | 3°C | 5°C |
| February | 2°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| March | 1°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| April | 0°C | 5°C | 10°C |
| May | 4°C | 9°C | 15°C |
| June | 9°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| July | 14°C | 19°C | 25°C |
| August | 15°C | 20°C | 25°C |
| September | 12°C | 16°C | 21°C |
| October | 6°C | 10°C | 13°C |
| November | 4°C | 7°C | 9°C |
| December | 2°C | 4°C | 7°C |
Buffalo Bill Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Buffalo Bill Reservoir: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
September 26
Location & Local Information
Buffalo Bill Reservoir, fed by mountain snowmelt on the Shoshone River near Cody, Wyoming, stays relatively cool year-round because of its elevation and continual inflows. Surface water temperatures typically range from near freezing in winter—around 32–40°F (0–4°C)—to spring values of roughly 34–55°F (1–13°C) as runoff begins. The warmest conditions occur in midsummer, when surface readings commonly sit between about 60–70°F (15–22°C), with occasional short-lived peaks into the low 70s °F (around 22–23°C) during heat spells. By autumn the lake cools again, often falling into the 45–60°F (7–15°C) range before ice starts to form.
Swimming at Buffalo Bill Reservoir is generally allowed because the area is managed for multiple recreational uses, including shore-based activities. However, the cold water, variable weather, boat traffic, and uneven underwater terrain make it more of a seasonal, cautious activity than a typical warm-water beach swim. Most people who swim do so in the warmest weeks of July and August and choose sheltered coves to reduce wind chill and waves. There may be limited lifeguard coverage or facilities, so visitors should heed posted rules, watch for boat traffic, and be aware of hypothermia risk even on warm days.