Temperature:

Your Favorite Locations:

Your favorites list is empty.

Butt Valley Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast

This page provides information on the current water temperature in Butt Valley Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.

Bucks Lake, United States
Bucks Lake, United States © Plumas National Forest, Public domain

Current Water Temperature

13.6°C
Today
14.9°C
Yesterday
15.7°C
A Week Ago
Get instant access to real-time water temperatures for this and all other locations with our iOS and Android apps.

Water Temperature in Butt Valley Reservoir today is 13.6°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

From September 14 to October 15

Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data

Date Current Average Forecast
OCT 815.5°C15.5°C
OCT 915.3°C15.5°C
OCT 1015.3°C15.5°C
OCT 1115.1°C15.5°C
OCT 1215.8°C15.5°C
OCT 1314.9°C15.5°C
OCT 1414.4°C15.5°C
OCT 1615.5°C13.7°C
OCT 1715.5°C13.8°C
OCT 1815.5°C13.9°C
OCT 1915.5°C14.0°C
OCT 2015.5°C14.1°C
OCT 2115.5°C14.2°C
OCT 2215.5°C14.3°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
January2°C10°C18°C
February2°C10°C17°C
March3°C12°C21°C
April5°C13°C21°C
May10°C16°C21°C
June15°C18°C22°C
July19°C23°C27°C
August19°C23°C27°C
September19°C22°C25°C
October12°C16°C19°C
November7°C13°C19°C
December5°C9°C12°C

Butt Valley Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location

Butt Valley Reservoir: Weather Forecast

October 15

° / °
clear sky
rain: 0% | wind:

October 16

° / °
clear sky
rain: 0% | wind:

October 17

° / °
overcast
rain: 0% | wind:

October 18

° / °
overcast
rain: 0% | wind:

October 19

° / °
partly cloudy
rain: 1% | wind:

October 20

° / °
overcast
rain: 27% | wind:

Location & Local Information

Butt Valley Reservoir’s water temperatures change a lot through the year because it is a relatively deep, mountain-fed reservoir. In summer the surface often warms into the low 60s to low 70s °F (about 15–22 °C) on sunny days, though cooler conditions are common after long cloudy spells. During spring and fall the surface typically ranges from the mid‑40s to mid‑60s °F (roughly 7–18 °C) as snowmelt and rain influence inflows. In winter the water hangs colder, frequently in the upper 30s to around 50 °F (about 4–10 °C). Deeper water remains substantially colder year‑round, and temperatures can vary with recent weather, wind, and reservoir release schedules.

Swimming at Butt Valley is generally considered a recreational activity in appropriate areas, but access and rules can be limited for safety and resource reasons. Restrictions may be posted because of strong currents near dam outlets, cold-water shock risk, water quality concerns, or operational needs, and lifeguards are not always provided. Visitors should check current management rules before entering the water and be mindful that even in summer the reservoir can feel quite chilly below the surface, making flotation devices, wetsuits, and caution advisable.

Nearby Lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Butt Valley Reservoir?
Water Temperature in Butt Valley Reservoir today is 13.6°C.
What is the water temperature in Butt Valley Reservoir during the summer months?
The water temperature in Butt Valley Reservoir in summer fluctuates in the range of 15°C - 27°C.
Is it possible to swim in Butt Valley Reservoir and what are the possibilities for this?
Yes, it is possible to swim in Butt Valley Reservoir in California. The lake is publicly accessible, but ensure to adhere to any posted safety regulations or guidelines.