Carter Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Carter Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Carter Lake today is 16.5°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 6 | 16.9°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 15.9°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 16.0°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 16.4°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 15.6°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 15.8°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 15.7°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 15.6°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 14 | 17.5°C | 16.6°C | |
| OCT 15 | 17.5°C | 16.6°C | |
| OCT 16 | 17.5°C | 16.7°C | |
| OCT 17 | 17.5°C | 16.7°C | |
| OCT 18 | 17.5°C | 16.8°C | |
| OCT 19 | 17.5°C | 16.8°C | |
| OCT 20 | 17.5°C | 16.9°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 | 1°C | 6°C | 10°C |
| March | 2°C | 6°C | 11°C |
| April | 6°C | 11°C | 17°C |
| May | 13°C | 18°C | 24°C |
| June | 20°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| July | 25°C | 29°C | 33°C |
| August | 25°C | 28°C | 30°C |
| September | 20°C | 24°C | 29°C |
| October | 14°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| November | 6°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| December | 1°C | 5°C | 9°C |
Carter Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Carter Lake: Weather Forecast
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Carter Lake, an oxbow lake adjacent to Council Bluffs in Iowa, experiences marked seasonal shifts in water temperature. In winter the surface can hover around freezing to the low 40s °F (about 0–4 °C), often forming ice in cold spells. Spring brings a steady rise, with typical temperatures from the mid‑40s to mid‑60s °F (7–18 °C) as ambient air warms. By summer the lake commonly reaches the warmest conditions, often ranging from the low 70s to low 80s °F (21–28 °C) on sunny days, though localized variations occur with depth, wind and shading. Fall sees a cooling trend back into roughly the 50s–60s °F (10–20 °C) before winter cold returns. These figures are approximate averages and can vary year to year and across different parts of the lake.
Swimming is allowed in designated recreation areas around Carter Lake, notably the municipal park beach, because those sites are managed for public use and marked for safety. However, swimmers should observe posted rules, as lifeguard coverage, launch zones, boat traffic, water clarity and occasional algal blooms can affect safety and water quality. Seasonal advisories or temporary closures may be issued by local authorities, so checking current notices before entering the water is recommended.