Cave Run Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Cave Run Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Cave Run Lake today is 15.6°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 26 | 17.7°C | 23.0°C | |
| OCT 27 | 17.4°C | 23.0°C | |
| OCT 28 | 16.7°C | 23.0°C | |
| OCT 29 | 16.4°C | 23.0°C | |
| OCT 30 | 17.0°C | 23.0°C | |
| OCT 31 | 17.1°C | 23.0°C | |
| NOV 1 | 16.7°C | 13.5°C | |
| NOV 2 | 15.3°C | 13.5°C | |
| NOV 3 | 13.5°C | 15.5°C | |
| NOV 4 | 13.5°C | 15.4°C | |
| NOV 5 | 13.5°C | 15.3°C | |
| NOV 6 | 13.5°C | 15.2°C | |
| NOV 7 | 13.5°C | 15.1°C | |
| NOV 8 | 13.5°C | 15.0°C | |
| NOV 9 | 13.5°C | 14.9°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 | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| February | 1°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| March | 5°C | 10°C | 15°C |
| April | 9°C | 15°C | 21°C |
| May | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| June | 19°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| July | 23°C | 29°C | 34°C |
| August | 24°C | 27°C | 29°C |
| September | 21°C | 26°C | 30°C |
| October | 18°C | 23°C | 28°C |
| November | 8°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| December | 4°C | 6°C | 9°C |
Cave Run Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Cave Run Lake: Weather Forecast
November 3
November 4
November 5
November 6
November 7
Location & Local Information
Cave Run Lake is a large reservoir in northeastern Kentucky whose surface temperatures change substantially through the year. In spring (roughly March–May) surface readings commonly run from about 45–68°F (7–20°C) as the water warms after winter. Summer (June–August) brings the warmest conditions, with surface temperatures typically between 70–85°F (21–29°C), though shallow coves can heat slightly higher on very hot days. In early fall (September–November) temperatures generally fall to roughly 55–72°F (13–22°C) as cooling sets in. During winter months the lake often drops to the mid-30s to upper 40s°F (around 1–9°C) at the surface. Like many reservoirs, Cave Run commonly stratifies in summer, so deeper water stays markedly colder than the surface, and temperature can change quickly with depth or when moving between shaded coves and open water.
Swimming in Cave Run Lake is permitted and the lake is managed for multiple recreational uses, including bathing, boating and fishing, but conditions and facilities vary across the shoreline. Many public access areas do not have lifeguards, and there are boat traffic and submerged hazards to consider, so swimming is generally at visitors’ own risk; designated swim beaches or campground waterfronts may offer safer, clearer spots. Cold water in spring, fall and winter can pose risks such as cold shock and hypothermia, and even in summer sudden drops in temperature with depth warrant caution for divers and swimmers.