China Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in China Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in China Lake today is 13.8°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 5 | 17.0°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 15.6°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 16.4°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 15.6°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 14.8°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 15.2°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 15.1°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 14.1°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 15.5°C | 13.9°C | |
| OCT 14 | 15.5°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 15 | 15.5°C | 14.1°C | |
| OCT 16 | 15.5°C | 14.1°C | |
| OCT 17 | 15.5°C | 14.2°C | |
| OCT 18 | 15.5°C | 14.3°C | |
| OCT 19 | 15.5°C | 14.4°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 | 5°C |
| February | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| March | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| April | 1°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| May | 6°C | 11°C | 15°C |
| June | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| July | 19°C | 24°C | 29°C |
| August | 21°C | 25°C | 27°C |
| September | 19°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| October | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| November | 3°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| December | 1°C | 4°C | 6°C |
China Lake: Water Temperature by Location
China Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
China Lake in central Maine follows the typical seasonal pattern of New England lakes. In spring the surface water commonly ranges from about 45–60°F (7–16°C) as the lake warms after ice-out. By early summer temperatures climb into the 60s to low 70s°F (16–22°C), and peak summer surface readings in July and August often sit between roughly 70–78°F (21–26°C), with the warmest shallow bays occasionally reaching the upper 70s. Deeper water remains noticeably cooler. In fall the lake cools back through the 50s–60s°F (10–16°C) range as turnover occurs, and winter sees temperatures at or near freezing, about 32–39°F (0–4°C), with ice cover common.
Swimming at China Lake is a common recreational activity and is allowed at public access points and private shorelines, subject to local rules and seasonal conditions. Designated beaches and launch sites are used for swimming during the warm months, but swimmers should heed posted advisories — for example, closures for algal blooms or hazardous conditions — and be aware there may not always be lifeguards on duty. Cold spring and fall water can produce cold-water shock, and winter ice requires proven safety checks before any ice activities, so swimmers and recreators should use judgment and follow municipal guidance.