Chilhowee Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Chilhowee Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Chilhowee Lake today is 22°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 68°F (20°C) to 74°F (23°C). The water is warm and pleasant for swimming, and in this range, one can stay in the water for extended periods without the risk of hypothermia. This is the ideal temperature for relaxation, swimming, and water sports. Families with children, as well as outdoor enthusiasts, will enjoy swimming and time spent in the water. For most people, this is the optimal temperature for a comfortable beach experience. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 13 | 22.9°C | 24.5°C | |
| SEP 14 | 23.1°C | 24.5°C | |
| SEP 15 | 22.9°C | 24.5°C | |
| SEP 16 | 22.3°C | 24.5°C | |
| SEP 17 | 22.9°C | 24.5°C | |
| SEP 18 | 22.8°C | 24.5°C | |
| SEP 19 | 22.4°C | 24.5°C | |
| SEP 20 | 22.2°C | 24.5°C | |
| SEP 21 | 24.5°C | 22.1°C | |
| SEP 22 | 24.5°C | 22.3°C | |
| SEP 23 | 24.5°C | 22.4°C | |
| SEP 24 | 24.5°C | 22.5°C | |
| SEP 25 | 24.5°C | 22.6°C | |
| SEP 26 | 24.5°C | 22.8°C | |
| SEP 27 | 24.5°C | 22.9°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 | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| February | 3°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| March | 4°C | 9°C | 15°C |
| April | 11°C | 16°C | 21°C |
| May | 17°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| June | 18°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| July | 23°C | 27°C | 31°C |
| August | 22°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| September | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| October | 18°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| November | 12°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| December | 7°C | 10°C | 14°C |
Chilhowee Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Chilhowee Lake: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
Chilhowee Lake, a TVA reservoir on the Little Tennessee River in eastern Tennessee, experiences a typical seasonal cycle of surface temperatures influenced by air temperature, depth, and river flow. In summer the surface commonly warms to the mid-70s to low-80s °F (24–28 °C), occasionally reaching the mid‑80s °F (29 °C) in heat waves. Spring surface temperatures generally range from the low‑50s to mid‑60s °F (10–18 °C) as the water transitions from winter cooling. Autumn sees a decline from the 60s to the 50s °F (15–10 °C) as the lake cools, and winter surface values often sit in the upper 30s to mid‑40s °F (3–7 °C), with deeper water remaining colder year‑round. Deeper sections can be substantially cooler than the surface, and a thermocline may form in summer, producing sharp temperature changes with depth.
Swimming is possible at Chilhowee Lake in many recreational and shoreline areas, and people commonly swim or use small craft when surface temperatures are warm. However, access and permitted swimming vary by site, and TVA restrictions, posted signage, and local ordinances should be observed; areas near the dam, intake structures, or fast-moving inlets can present strong currents and are unsafe for swimmers. Cold or rapidly changing water temperatures increase the risk of cold shock and hypothermia, so swimmers should judge conditions carefully, wear flotation if appropriate, and prioritize safety.