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 15°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 6 | 16.1°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 16.4°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 16.1°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 15.8°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 15.6°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 15.6°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 15.3°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 15.0°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 14 | 16.0°C | 15.1°C | |
| OCT 15 | 16.0°C | 15.1°C | |
| OCT 16 | 16.0°C | 15.2°C | |
| OCT 17 | 16.0°C | 15.2°C | |
| OCT 18 | 16.0°C | 15.3°C | |
| OCT 19 | 16.0°C | 15.3°C | |
| OCT 20 | 16.0°C | 15.4°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 | 2°C | 5°C |
| March | 0°C | 5°C | 10°C |
| April | 3°C | 9°C | 15°C |
| May | 6°C | 12°C | 19°C |
| June | 15°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| July | 21°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| August | 20°C | 24°C | 29°C |
| September | 19°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| October | 12°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| November | 7°C | 10°C | 13°C |
| December | 1°C | 4°C | 8°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, a reservoir in northern Colorado, typically runs cool for most of the year because of its elevation and depth. Seasonal surface temperatures commonly range from roughly 40–58°F (4–14°C) in spring, climb to about 62–75°F (17–24°C) in the peak of summer, fall back to roughly 50–65°F (10–18°C) during early autumn, and often drop to near freezing, around 33–40°F (1–4°C), through the winter when ice can form. Thermal stratification can mean surface readings in mid‑summer feel much warmer than deeper water, but even warm summer afternoons may be brisk compared with low‑elevation lakes.
Swimming is generally permitted at Carter Lake as part of its recreational use, and visitors commonly enter the water in summer months when surface temperatures are most comfortable. However, swimming is subject to local park rules and practical constraints: there are few lifeguards, sizable boat traffic in much of the reservoir, and cold, deep water can create a risk of cold‑water shock or rapid fatigue. For safety, people are advised to obey posted regulations, choose designated day‑use areas free of heavy boating, wear flotation if uncertain, and avoid prolonged exposure when temperatures are on the lower end of the ranges.