Chautauqua Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Chautauqua Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Chautauqua Lake today is 14.9°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 | 16.9°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 16.6°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 15.8°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 16.0°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 15.8°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 15.1°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 15.6°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 14.9°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 14 | 16.0°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 15 | 16.0°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 16 | 16.0°C | 15.1°C | |
| OCT 17 | 16.0°C | 15.1°C | |
| OCT 18 | 16.0°C | 15.2°C | |
| OCT 19 | 16.0°C | 15.2°C | |
| OCT 20 | 16.0°C | 15.3°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| February | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| March | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| April | 3°C | 9°C | 14°C |
| May | 7°C | 15°C | 22°C |
| June | 14°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| July | 19°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| August | 20°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| September | 18°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| October | 13°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| November | 4°C | 10°C | 15°C |
| December | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
Chautauqua Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Chautauqua Lake: Weather Forecast
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Chautauqua Lake in western New York experiences a wide range of water temperatures through the year. In winter the surface commonly hovers near freezing, roughly 32–39°F (0–4°C), and the lake often develops ice cover. Spring sees a steady warm-up with surface temperatures typically between about 40–60°F (4–16°C), still cool for most swimmers. During summer, the lake is at its warmest; typical surface readings in June through August are in the mid‑60s to around 80°F (18–27°C), and on hot, calm days localized areas can reach the mid‑80s°F (around 29°C). In autumn the water cools again, falling from roughly 55–65°F (13–18°C) in early fall to the 40s°F (4–9°C) by late fall.
Swimming in Chautauqua Lake is allowed and commonly practiced at public beaches and designated swimming areas, particularly in summer when temperatures are comfortable for recreation. Authorities and local governments post advisories and may close or restrict access for safety reasons: ice makes winter swimming dangerous, and warm-season issues such as strong currents, sudden depth changes, unstable shorelines, and harmful algal blooms can lead to temporary restrictions. Lifeguard coverage varies by site, so swimmers should heed posted notices, check current water‑quality advisories, and use common‑sense precautions.