Cochiti Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Cochiti Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Cochiti Lake today is 15.1°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| APR 11 | 18.3°C | 15.0°C | |
| APR 12 | 18.7°C | 15.0°C | |
| APR 13 | 18.7°C | 15.0°C | |
| APR 14 | 16.1°C | 15.0°C | |
| APR 15 | 15.5°C | 15.0°C | |
| APR 16 | 15.4°C | 15.0°C | |
| APR 17 | 15.2°C | 15.0°C | |
| APR 18 | 15.1°C | 15.0°C | |
| APR 19 | 15.0°C | 15.1°C | |
| APR 20 | 15.0°C | 15.1°C | |
| APR 21 | 15.0°C | 15.1°C | |
| APR 22 | 15.0°C | 15.1°C | |
| APR 23 | 15.0°C | 15.1°C | |
| APR 24 | 15.0°C | 15.1°C | |
| APR 25 | 15.0°C | 15.1°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 | 4°C | 8°C |
| February | 0°C | 5°C | 10°C |
| March | 6°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| April | 8°C | 15°C | 22°C |
| May | 14°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| June | 14°C | 21°C | 27°C |
| July | 21°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| August | 22°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| September | 20°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| October | 16°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| November | 7°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| December | 2°C | 5°C | 9°C |
Cochiti Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Cochiti Lake: Weather Forecast
April 19
April 20
April 21
April 22
April 23
Location & Local Information
Cochiti Lake, a reservoir on the Rio Grande in New Mexico, experiences a wide range of water temperatures through the year. In spring the surface water typically runs cool, roughly 45–60°F (7–16°C) as snowmelt and runoff dominate. Summer brings the warmest surface readings, often about 65–80°F (18–27°C) in shallow, sun-exposed areas, though deeper water remains noticeably cooler. In fall surface temperatures commonly fall back to 50–65°F (10–18°C). Winter surface temperatures can drop into the mid-30s to mid-40s°F (2–7°C), with deeper layers staying near freezing-point conditions. The reservoir stratifies in warm months, so swimmers who venture past the shallow zones can encounter much colder water below the thermocline.
Swimming is generally permitted at Cochiti Lake’s recreation areas but is typically at one’s own risk rather than supervised by lifeguards, and local rules or seasonal advisories may restrict access. Conditions that make swimming risky include cold, sudden temperature changes, steep drop-offs, submerged rocks and debris, and boat traffic. For safety visitors are advised to swim only in designated shoreline areas, be mindful of changing temperatures that can cause cold shock, and follow posted regulations and guidance from on-site authorities.