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 27°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 79°F (26°C) to 82°F (28°C). This is very warm water, allowing for extended stays without any discomfort. Swimming in these conditions will be particularly enjoyable, making it the ideal temperature range for those who want to relax in the sea. Additionally, water in this temperature range is suitable for children and elderly people, as it is comfortable for prolonged stays. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUG 24 | 26.6°C | 25.5°C | |
| AUG 25 | 26.6°C | 25.5°C | |
| AUG 26 | 27.5°C | 25.5°C | |
| AUG 27 | 26.6°C | 25.5°C | |
| AUG 28 | 26.7°C | 25.5°C | |
| AUG 29 | 27.0°C | 25.5°C | |
| AUG 30 | 27.0°C | 25.5°C | |
| AUG 31 | 26.9°C | 25.5°C | |
| SEP 1 | 24.5°C | 26.9°C | |
| SEP 2 | 24.5°C | 26.8°C | |
| SEP 3 | 24.5°C | 26.6°C | |
| SEP 4 | 24.5°C | 26.5°C | |
| SEP 5 | 24.5°C | 26.4°C | |
| SEP 6 | 24.5°C | 26.3°C | |
| SEP 7 | 24.5°C | 26.1°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 | 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 1
September 2
September 3
September 4
September 5
September 6
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.