Charles Mill Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Charles Mill Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Charles Mill Lake today is 16.3°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 5 | 19.0°C | 18.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 18.4°C | 18.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 18.2°C | 18.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 17.4°C | 18.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 17.6°C | 18.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 17.2°C | 18.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 16.5°C | 18.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 17.0°C | 18.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 18.5°C | 16.4°C | |
| OCT 14 | 18.5°C | 16.5°C | |
| OCT 15 | 18.5°C | 16.6°C | |
| OCT 16 | 18.5°C | 16.7°C | |
| OCT 17 | 18.5°C | 16.9°C | |
| OCT 18 | 18.5°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 19 | 18.5°C | 17.1°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 | 7°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| March | 1°C | 5°C | 9°C |
| April | 4°C | 10°C | 16°C |
| May | 11°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| June | 17°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| July | 23°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| August | 22°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| September | 21°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| October | 15°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| November | 6°C | 11°C | 15°C |
| December | 3°C | 6°C | 9°C |
Charles Mill Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Charles Mill Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Charles Mill Lake, like many midwestern reservoirs, shows pronounced seasonal swings in water temperature. In winter the surface can hover near freezing, roughly 32–40°F (0–4°C), often remaining ice-covered or just above freezing on cold days. Spring brings a steady warming to about 45–65°F (7–18°C) as runoff and air temperatures rise. By summer the surface commonly reaches about 70–80°F (21–27°C), with heat waves pushing parts of the reservoir into the low 80s (around 28–29°C); deeper water stays noticeably cooler. Fall sees a rapid cooling back into the 50s–60s °F (10–18°C) range as the lake destratifies. Local weather, wind, and inflows can cause variation, and surface readings will usually be warmer than temperatures a few feet down.
Swimming at Charles Mill Lake is possible but generally confined to marked or designated areas for safety and water-quality reasons. Open-water swimming outside those zones can be hazardous because of boat traffic, sudden drop-offs, underwater obstructions, and cooler subsurface layers that can cause cold shock. Some park or reservoir authorities provide seasonal staffed swim beaches or post rules and hours; in other places swimming is allowed at your own risk where not explicitly prohibited. Observing posted signs and exercising caution around boats and changing temperatures is important for a safe experience.